As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) gears up for a major rally in Lahore, the city’s police have been instructed to apprehend the remaining suspects involved in the May 9 incidents, which saw widespread unrest and damage.

Police officials confirmed that all station house officers (SHOs) have been directed to prioritize these arrests during the rally. A detailed security plan has been formulated, pending approval from the district administration to hold the event.

Senior officers indicated that divisional superintendents of police (SPs) would supervise the operation, with security arrangements finalized once the rally venue is confirmed. To enhance security, cameras will be installed at all entry points, and officers at these locations will be provided with photos and data of individuals wanted in connection with the May 9 incidents.

The police plan to closely monitor and record activities at the rally, focusing on identifying and arresting the remaining suspects. This security effort is part of a larger crackdown aimed at maintaining order and preventing further unrest.

Amid mounting tensions, PTI has announced that it will move forward with its rally in Lahore on September 21, despite ongoing police raids, arrests, and legal challenges. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reaffirmed on Wednesday that the rally would proceed as scheduled.

The party leadership remains committed to organizing the event, regardless of whether they receive the necessary No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from local authorities. Aleema Khan, sister of PTI founder Imran Khan, called the rally a stand for democracy and the rule of law, vowing that women from Lahore would lead the event in a peaceful protest, despite the potential for police action.

Meanwhile, police have continued conducting raids across Lahore and other parts of the province, arresting several PTI members. PTI parliamentary leader in the Punjab Assembly, Ali Imtiaz Warraich, was briefly detained before being released. In addition, a late-night raid was carried out at the home of PTI leader Aliya Hamza, who had recently been released on bail following a 16-month imprisonment.

In response, PTI filed a petition with the Lahore High Court (LHC), seeking protection from further arrests. The petition, submitted by Sheikh Imtiaz Mahmood and Yasir Gillani, argues that the police are infringing upon the constitutional rights of PTI members.