Punjab Moves to Ban TLP, Plans Arrest of Rizvi Brothers

Web Desk | 8 months ago

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari announced on Thursday that Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Saad Hussain Rizvi and his brother Anas Rizvi are expected to be taken into custody soon, accusing them of using human shields to avoid arrest.

Addressing a press conference in Lahore, Bukhari said the provincial cabinet has approved a proposal to ban TLP and forwarded the summary to the federal government for final approval.

Responding to questions about the delay in the arrests, the minister explained that the authorities aim to proceed cautiously to prevent casualties.

“If someone hides behind human shields and provokes unrest, the government has to act responsibly to avoid loss of life. We are working to achieve our objective with minimum risk,” she stated.

Whistle-blower Cell Established

Bukhari also announced the creation of a dedicated “whistle-blower cell” within the Punjab Police to receive anonymous reports about extremist organizations and illegal foreign residents.

Citizens can contact the helpline 15, from where their calls will be transferred to the special unit for follow-up action. She appealed to the public to assist law enforcement by sharing credible information on such elements.

Crackdown on TLP Publicity

The provincial government has also prohibited all forms of TLP publicity, including posters, banners, advertisements, and pamphlets across Punjab.

According to Bukhari, the authorities have categorized the group’s leadership into three tiers, with plans to include these names in the Fourth Schedule once the federal government officially proscribes the organization.

Rizvi Brothers Warned to Surrender

Earlier reports indicated that Punjab Police had tracked down the locations of Saad and Anas Rizvi. Officials have reportedly urged both brothers to surrender voluntarily, warning that failure to do so would result in arrest.

Law enforcement agencies are continuing operations against individuals linked to violent incidents in Rawat, Taxila, and Muridke, where several cases have been registered against the TLP chief and his supporters under terrorism and attempted murder charges.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing and have assured that the arrests of the Rizvi brothers are imminent.