A delegation from the Punjab Police reportedly conducted a search operation at the Zaman Park residence of former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan in search of "terrorists." The delegation, led by Lahore Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Lahore Deputy Commissioner Rafia Haider, DIG Operations Sadiq Dogar, and SSP Operations Sohaib, intends to meet with Khan and engage in negotiations. The move comes after obtaining search warrants for Khan's residence. Punjab information minister Amir Mir stated that hundreds of policemen would be involved in the search operation, focusing on locating any terrorists hiding within the premises.
Search Operation Planned at Khan's Residence
According to reports, the search operation at Imran Khan's residence will involve a comprehensive examination of all entry and exit points with the primary objective of finding terrorists allegedly hiding on the premises. The Punjab government had earlier claimed that there were 30 to 40 terrorists present at Khan's residence and had issued a 24-hour ultimatum to hand them over. However, no action was taken after the deadline expired. The authorities plan to conduct the search operation with Khan's permission and in the presence of cameras to apprehend any suspected terrorists.
Arrests Made and Terrorism Cases Filed
Lahore Capital City Police Officer Bilal Saddique Kamyana announced the arrest of six more individuals attempting to flee from Imran Khan's residence, whom they considered terrorists. Meanwhile, an anti-terrorism court granted Khan pre-arrest bail till June 2 in three terrorism cases filed against him following the violence that erupted after his arrest on May 9. Khan, in a video-link address, expressed concerns about Pakistan's future, claiming it is heading towards disaster and potential disintegration. The unrest triggered by Khan's arrest led to violent clashes, including an attack on the army headquarters and the torching of a corps commander's house.
Unrest and Arrests Following Khan's Ouster
Imran Khan, a former cricketer-turned-politician, was ousted from power in April the previous year after losing a no-confidence vote. Khan alleged that it was part of a US-led conspiracy targeting him due to his independent foreign policy decisions. The aftermath of his arrest witnessed violent protests, resulting in casualties. Law enforcement agencies have made numerous arrests, including over 7,000 workers from Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and 14 individuals attempting to flee from Khan's residence. The military vowed to bring the arsonists to justice through legal trials under relevant laws, including the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secrets Act.
(With PTI Inputs)
