TLP offices, mosques sealed as Punjab, Center launches sweeping drive

The Punjab government and the Islamabad Capital Territory administration launched a crackdown on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, sealing several of its offices, mosques and seminaries amid heightened tensions ahead of the group’s planned protests.

The coordinated operation follows days of violence and comes just before the TLP’s planned nationwide demonstrations on Friday. Officials said the crackdown is aimed at curbing unrest and preventing misuse of religious platforms to incite violence and mayhem.

In Islamabad, authorities sealed the central TLP office located in Rural Murree Road at Athal Chowk along with another party office in Madina Town on Simly Dam Road, Bhara Kahu.

The central mosque and seminary Anwar Madina in Nai Abadi, Bhara Kahu, and another mosque in Mohallah Tekri were also closed.

Read more: The government made an effort for a peaceful solution, but the TLP chose violence: Naqvi

At the union council level, TLP offices in Shahpur and Mumtaz Qadri Mosque in Athal village were sealed along with Jamia Mosque at Satrah Mile on Murree Road and UC-14 TLP office, mosque and seminary in Siri Chowk, Phulgran.

Officials confirmed that five new cases had been registered against TLP managers and workers as part of the ongoing trial.

Two cases were filed in Tarnol police station naming 89 accused under four provisions of the Act, while Sumbal Police registered a case naming 33 workers and Sangjani Police filed another against 51 TLP members. Authorities also moved to freeze all bank accounts associated with the group.

Interventions in Lahore and Rawalpindi

In Lahore, the Punjab government intensified its actions and sealed two major mosques in Johar Town and Model Town, including the headquarters of the TLP.

The central mosque of Mohammadia Ghousia was placed under the supervision of the local administration, with a government-appointed cleric assigned to manage religious affairs.

A Chakri police video showed additional SHO Sub-Inspector Malik Bashir announcing the order over mosque loudspeaker, urging residents to cooperate with authorities and warning against interference in administrative affairs.

Also read: Section 144 extended as Punjab government considers TLP ban after violent protests

In Rawalpindi, control of eight mosques and a seminary affiliated to the TLP was handed over to the Auqaf Department. Police and administration officials deployed security personnel to the sites before formally handing over management and maintenance responsibilities.

Meanwhile, a senior police officer confirmed that over 5,500 police officers and personnel had been deployed across Rawalpindi ahead of Friday prayers, the first since the Muridke incidents.

Security checkpoints were set up at all entry and exit points while police equipped with anti-riot gear were deployed at sensitive locations in both city and cantonment areas. The officer clarified that despite the increased emergency preparedness, the roads would remain open and daily life would continue as normal.

Punjab lifts ‘iron-fist’ policy

The crackdown follows Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s law and order meeting where she directed officials to adopt an “iron fist” approach against elements involved in bloodshed, sabotage and unrest.

Officials reaffirmed that the government’s actions did not target any religious group, but targeted individuals and organizations with a record of disturbing the peace.

The government warned that such offenses would be prosecuted under anti-terrorism laws, while attempts to radicalize children or undermine religious sanctity would face the same legal consequences.

A complete ban has been put in place on the use of spikes with nails, petrol bombs and all weapons during protests. The authorities have also been instructed to strictly enforce the loudspeaker rules.

Section 144 will remain in force across Punjab until October 18, with violations punishable under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Officials said those who spread hate speech or misinformation online will face charges under the Electronic Crime Prevention Act.

Inspector General of Police, Dr. Usman Anwar, stated that no one will be allowed to take to the streets under the guise of a strike, and warned that rioters and instigators will face severe legal consequences, including up to 14 years in prison under terrorism laws.

Markets, public transport and businesses will remain open as the government makes efforts to ensure public order across Punjab.