Section 144 Extended in Rawalpindi for 7 Days Amid ‘Imminent Threat’ Warning

Rawalpindi Extends Section 144 From Dec 11–17 Amid ‘Imminent Threat’ Warning

The Rawalpindi police on Thursday extended Section 144 in the district from December 11 to 17, imposing a temporary ban on public gatherings, assemblies and the carrying of arms due to an “imminent threat” identified by security agencies.

According to an order issued by Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema, the District Intelligence Committee (DIC) warned during a meeting on Tuesday that the district faces potential threats, particularly near sensitive installations, key roads and critical infrastructure, posing serious risks to public safety and order.

The DIC reported specific intelligence suggesting that certain groups are mobilising to disrupt law and order through large gatherings, protests and other mass assemblies. The committee further noted that these elements may target “soft locations” and mobilise individuals capable of engaging in violent activities.

The DC’s order stated that, given the identified threat, strict measures were essential “to ensure the security of the people and installations” and to prevent any untoward incidents.

Under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) Punjab Amendment Act 2024, the order bans:

All assemblies or gatherings of five or more people, including sit-ins, rallies, protests, demonstrations, processions, jalsas and dharnas;

Carrying of weapons or any objects that could be used for violence, such as spikes, batons, petrol bombs or improvised explosives (law enforcement personnel exempted);

Display of arms;

Pillion riding;

Use of loudspeakers;

Hate speech or objectionable speeches;

Any attempt to block or resist police-imposed restrictions on public movement or assemblies.

The restrictions take effect immediately and will remain in place until December 17 (Wednesday). Offences committed during the enforcement period may still be prosecuted even after the order expires.