Imran Khan, the Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has departed from his residence in Zaman Park, Lahore, to attend a court hearing related to the Toshakhana case in Islamabad today.
Security measures have been reinforced in the vicinity of the Judicial Complex in anticipation of Khan’s arrival, following a previous incident where PTI workers removed barriers and vandalized the building during their party chief’s appearances at different courts. As a result, the hearing has been relocated from F-8 Court Complex to the Judicial Complex in G-11, based on PTI’s concerns over Khan’s safety.
Khan has repeatedly refused to appear in court for the Toshakhana case, resulting in non-bailable arrest warrants being issued by Additional Session Judge Zafar Iqbal. Khan’s counsel has cited “security threats” as the reason for his absence.
On March 14, when the Islamabad police attempted to arrest Khan in Lahore, they faced resistance and over 60 police personnel were injured, along with several PTI workers. Despite seeking relief from the sessions court, the judge maintained that Khan should surrender himself as per the law. However, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has now intervened and prevented the police from arresting the deposed prime minister in the Toshakhana case, despite his continued resistance.
In a statement, the spokesperson for Islamabad police announced that Section 144 has been enforced in the federal capital, prohibiting public gatherings and the display of weapons. Private companies, security guards, and individuals have also been forbidden from carrying weapons, and citizens have been advised to carry necessary documents including car ownership when traveling.
The police have issued a traffic plan advising citizens to avoid unnecessary travel from Sector G-11/1 and G-10/1 and cooperate with authorities during checking. In addition, security measures have been taken, including the placement of containers around the judicial complex, to ensure the safety of the area.
