PTI Leader Aleema Khan Detained in Lahore Amid Pre-Protest Crackdown

Key Takeaways

Aleema Khan, sister of PTI founder Imran Khan, was detained under the MPO in Lahore.
The detention order was issued amid reports of a crackdown on PTI ahead of September 27 protests.
The MPO allows for 30-day detention without judicial review.

PTI leader Aleema Khan has been detained in Lahore under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance (MPO), according to a statement from the party. The detention order, issued by Lahore’s deputy commissioner, Muhammad Ali Ijaz, is valid for 30 days and restricts judicial review.

The move comes as PTI prepares for a countrywide protest and march to Islamabad on September 27, aimed at demanding Imran Khan’s release from jail and mobilising support for the supremacy of the Constitution.

According to the MPO order, Aleema and a man named Muhammad Ameer are considered a threat to public safety and order. The order cites their involvement in roadblocks and protests on May 9, 2023, when PTI supporters and workers took to the streets against Imran’s arrest.

The Civil Lines Division superintendent of police and district intelligence branch recommended their detention to maintain law and order in the city.

Aleema’s sister, Noreen Niazi, addressed a press conference in Lahore, confirming her sister’s detention. Niazi stated that Aleema was ‘picked up’ after leaving her residence on Saturday, and her vehicle was later found at a police station.

In a post on X, Aleema’s son Shahrez Khan alleged that his mother was ‘abducted’ after leaving home. He called for the government to disclose her whereabouts and ensure her safe return, noting that she was on bail in all cases against her in Lahore.

The MPO ordinance allows for the detention of individuals deemed a potential danger to public peace and tranquillity, without the need for judicial review. The order states that Aleema and Ameer are ‘prejudicial to the public safety and maintenance of public order’.

PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram has criticised the government’s actions, stating that no roads will be blocked during the protest. However, the government has not commented on the detention.

Their custody shall be placed under the superintendent, Central Jail, Kot Lakhpat, Lahore. They shall be at liberty to make a representation to the provincial government against this order.
Lahore’s deputy commissioner (DC) Muhammad Ali Ijaz, DC, Lahore