TLP offices, mosques sealed as Punjab, Centre launch sweeping crackdown

The Punjab government and the Islamabad Capital Territory administration launched a crackdown against 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 scheduled countrywide demonstrations on Friday. Officials said the crackdown aims to curb unrest and prevent the misuse of religious platforms to incite violence and chaos.

In Islamabad, authorities sealed the central TLP office located in the rural area of 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.

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

Officials confirmed that five new cases had been registered against TLP leaders and workers as part of the ongoing legal action.

Two cases were lodged in Tarnol Police Station, nominating 89 accused under four legal provisions, 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.

Crackdown in Lahore and Rawalpindi

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

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

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

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In Rawalpindi, control of eight mosques and one seminary affiliated with TLP was handed over to the Auqaf Department. Police and administration officials deployed security personnel to the sites before formally transferring 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 stationed at sensitive locations in both urban and cantonment areas. The officer clarified that despite the heightened alert, roads would remain open and daily life would continue as normal.

Punjab vows ‘iron-fist’ policy

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

Officials reaffirmed that the government’s actions were not aimed at any religious group but targeted individuals and organisations with a record of disturbing peace.

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

A complete ban has been imposed on the use of nail-studded sticks, petrol bombs, and all weapons during protests. Authorities have also been instructed to enforce loudspeaker regulations rigorously.

Section 144 remains in force across Punjab until October 18, with violations punishable under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Officials said those spreading hate speech or misinformation online will face cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes 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, warning that rioters and instigators will face strict legal consequences, including up to 14 years in prison under terrorism laws.

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