Pakistan Deploys Non-lethal Weapons Ahead of PTI Protest March

Pakistan's civilian government has escalated security measures in the capital and adjacent garrison city ahead of a major opposition demonstration planned by Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. The long march, scheduled to commence on September 27, is being organized to press demands for Khan's release from detention.

Authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have implemented enhanced security protocols across both cities, with checkpoints and barriers being set up in anticipation of large protest gatherings. The government has expressed concern about potential civil unrest stemming from the demonstrations.

Police forces have been equipped with non-lethal crowd-dispersal tools, including specialized net guns designed to control crowds without causing serious injury. The deployment of such equipment signals official apprehension regarding the scale and intensity of the planned march.

Imran Khan, who served as Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022, has remained a polarizing political figure in Pakistan. His detention has energized his supporters, who view his continued imprisonment as politically motivated. The PTI has mobilized party workers across the country to participate in the September 27 demonstration, which is expected to draw thousands of participants.

The security buildup underscores heightened tensions between the ruling coalition government and the opposition as Pakistan navigates a period of significant political instability amid economic challenges.