Imran Khan, Bushra, senior PTI leaders booked in multiple cases across Punjab

FAISALABAD: As the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest enters its second day, multiple cases have been registered against party founder Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi, and KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur over terrorism charges in multiple cities of Punjab.

At least 45 people including Imran Khan were booked in a case registered in Faisalabad at the Ghulam Muhammadabad police station under the Anti-Terrorism Act and other sections of the Pakistan Penal Code.

The police spokesperson said that 35 people have already been arrested on charges including damaging property, attacking police, and other charges.

According to the first information report (FIR), the booked PTI workers violated law and order at the instigation of the former prime minister Imran Khan, who has currently been imprisoned in Adiala Jail for a year now.

Meanwhile, the former prime minister was booked in a separate case alongside his wife Bushra Bibi, sister Aleema Khan, and Ali Amin Gandapur in Taxila.

Former president Arif Alvi, Leader of the opposition in the National Assembly Omar Ayub, and others have also been accused in the case registered under 13 sections including terrorism charges. A separate terrorism case was registered against the party founder, workers among 40 nominated and 100 unidentified men in Gujranwala.

The development came after police initiated a crackdown against PTI workers, arresting 139 in Islamabad. As per reports, around 490 PTI workers have been arrested in various cities across Punjab.

The authorities have implemented Section 144, prohibiting gatherings, and have closed key access roads, including the Srinagar Highway and the Expressway at Khanna Bridge.

In light of the protests, the government has closed major motorways and GT Road leading to Islamabad and also the entry and exit points of the city. Rawalpindi-Islamabad Metro Bus service has also been suspended, and internet and mobile services have been disrupted.