Pakistan’s Punjab bans public gatherings for five days amid terror threat

Authorities in Pakistan’s Punjab province have announced that Section 144 of the criminal procedure law will be in force across the province for five days, under which gatherings of more than five people in public places are banned until September 17.

The decision was taken after, according to provincial officials, credible intelligence reports were received about imminent terror threats. Under the order, carrying, displaying or threatening with weapons in public places is also completely prohibited.

Officials said militant groups were likely planning to target public gatherings through suicide attacks, car bombs and assassination operations. Security agencies have warned that these threats could put the lives of citizens and public safety at risk.

Despite these restrictions, wedding ceremonies, congregational prayers, funerals, court hearings and official government events are exempt from the order. Security and intelligence personnel will also be allowed to carry weapons while on duty.

Punjab police, the Counter Terrorism Department and the Special Branch have called for immediate preventive action. Local officials have also described the enforcement of Section 144 as necessary to prevent possible attacks and contain social instability.

Section 144 is one of the legal tools used in Pakistan to restrict movement and gatherings during security emergencies and is usually imposed when security threats rise in the country’s cities and provinces.