LAHORE: The city remained tense on Thursday following overnight clashes between police and Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) workers that left several people injured, including a dozen policemen.
The confrontation erupted after TLP’s call for a march to Islamabad, where the group planned to stage a protest outside the US embassy in solidarity with Palestinians. In response, authorities launched a crackdown, sealing the TLP headquarters on Multan Road with shipping containers and blocking major entry and exit routes to prevent the rally.
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In Islamabad, containers were also placed at entry points, while police detained over 100 TLP supporters in advance of the planned demonstration.
Following the violence, TLP urged its supporters to gather in Lahore for a “final call” on Friday, prompting police to heighten security across Punjab. Residents in areas from Chauburji to Yateem Khanna Chowk faced severe disruptions as police and TLP activists continued to face off.
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By Thursday afternoon, fresh skirmishes broke out on Multan Road, with TLP supporters reportedly ransacking businesses and damaging vehicles. The group claimed two of its members were killed and 50 injured, while police confirmed one death and reported at least seven protesters and 12 officers wounded.
Police have registered cases under anti-terrorism laws against hundreds of TLP activists, including party chief Saad Rizvi and other senior leaders.
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Meanwhile, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry accused the TLP of trying to “spread unrest and anarchy” under the guise of a Gaza solidarity protest. Speaking outside Parliament House, he said those arrested were carrying batons, tear gas shells, and firearms, calling it evidence of violent intent.
Chaudhry described the TLP as a “mercenary-like group” exploiting religion for political purposes and accused it of spreading false information about casualties on social media.