Balochistan imposes month-long Section 144
QUETTA: The Balochistan government has imposed Section 144 across the province for one month, citing heightened security concerns, recent terrorists attacks and the overall law-and-order situation.
The decision took immediate effect and will remain in force from February 1 until the end of February, according to an official notification issued by the Balochistan Home Department on Sunday.
The move followed a series of coordinated attacks at multiple locations in Balochistan that occurred a day earlier. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), 92 terrorists were killed as security forces repelled the attacks across the province on Saturday, while 15 security personnel were also martyred in combat.
“Terrorists of Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Hindustan attempted to disturb the peace of Balochistan by conducting multiple terrorist activities around Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Tump, Gwadar and Pasni,” the ISPR said in a statement. Under the notification, the display and use of weapons have been completely banned. Brandishing arms, aerial firing or carrying weapons at public or private places will be treated as serious offences.
The order also bans pillion riding on motorcycles, though authorities said exemptions for women and children are under consideration, in line with previous notifications.
“The movement of vehicles with tinted or blackened windows has been prohibited, along with the use of unregistered vehicles and motorcycles. Gatherings of five or more people, including rallies, processions, protests or public meetings of political, religious or social nature, have also been banned. Any such activity will require prior approval from the relevant district administration,” it said.
Covering one’s face in public places using masks, mufflers or cloth has been prohibited, except for medical or other legitimate reasons. The notification warned that violators will face strict legal action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code and other relevant laws, which may include imprisonment of up to six months or fines.
Police, levies, the Frontier Corps and other law enforcement agencies have been granted full authority to enforce the restrictions.
Officials said the measures were essential to protect lives and property, strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism efforts and prevent any untoward incidents. The provincial government has urged citizens across all districts to fully comply with the restrictions and cooperate with authorities to help maintain peace. Staff Report
