Quetta, May 18: The government of Pakistan has enforced Section 144 in Balochistan province. Officials have described this as a precautionary measure in response to potential terrorist threats. Local media reported this development on Monday.
According to a notification from the Home Department, the restrictions are effective immediately and will remain in place for 30 days. These include a ban on the display of weapons, double riding on motorcycles, and gatherings of five or more individuals.
Additionally, there is a prohibition on covering faces in public places with masks, scarves, or any other items to ensure identification processes are not hindered. All divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners, police officials, and relevant agencies have been directed to strictly enforce these orders.
Media reports indicate that Assistant Home Department Officer Babar Yousafzai confirmed the ban on pillion riding and gatherings of more than four people.
Security forces have been placed on high alert due to the threat of potential attacks.
Meanwhile, on May 16, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The commission stated that people in these regions are caught in a cycle of enforced disappearances, targeted killings, and militant attacks.
The HRCP also highlighted the alleged abduction of the Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and two other staff members from Gwadar University, raising serious questions about the state’s ability to secure major highways and ensure citizen safety.
The commission referenced recent deadly attacks in Bannu, Bajaur, and Lakki Marwat in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, urging the government to take decisive action to ensure the safety of human lives and public spaces.
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