Thu Sep 12 03:20:55 UTC 2024: ## Islamabad Police Form SIT to Investigate Terrorism Case Against PTI Leaders

**Islamabad, September 12, 2024** – Following a Sept 8 public gathering by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that led to a crackdown on the party, Islamabad police have formed a five-member special investigation team (SIT) to probe a terrorism case against PTI leaders and supporters. The case, registered at the Sangjani police station, accuses PTI leaders of violating the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024, assaulting police officials, and taking them hostage at gunpoint.

The FIR names prominent PTI figures, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, and others, who allegedly held the magistrate and police officials captive during the gathering. The SIT, led by SSP Investigation Arsalan Shahzaib, is tasked with investigating the case and arresting the accused.

In a separate incident, two additional cases against PTI leaders surfaced at the Sangjani and Ramna police stations. The Sangjani case accuses PTI supporters of assaulting police personnel and firing shots, while the Ramna case alleges PTI supporters blocked a road and assaulted police officers.

Meanwhile, the National Assembly Secretariat has expressed serious concern over the alleged breach of Parliament House during the arrest of PTI MNAs on the night of September 9-10. The Secretariat has demanded a probe into the incident by the Interior Ministry and has requested a report within seven days.

The Secretariat’s letter to the Interior Secretary highlights the violation of National Assembly rules and the sanctity of Parliament House, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. The letter also mentions possible disciplinary action against those responsible for the breach.

Sources within the police suggest that while senior officers led the operation, junior officers might be held accountable for the unprecedented action. The police are facing criticism for not informing the Speaker about the hours-long operation and the arrest of lawmakers within the Parliament House.

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