Punjab government gives PTI 24-hour ultimatum Before arrest

As the 24-hour ultimatum set by the Punjab government approaches its expiration, officials have stated that they will not conduct a raid on the residence of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan before the deadline elapses. Furthermore, the government has refuted Imran Khan's claims that police have been deployed to arrest him. In an interview on Geo News' program "Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Saath," Punjab caretaker Information Minister Amir Mir clarified the government's position.

Punjab Government's Plan to Be Revealed After Expiry of 24-Hour Ultimatum

According to Information Minister Amir Mir, the government will disclose its plans after the 24-hour deadline, which ends at 2pm on Thursday. The minister assured that no action would be taken at Imran Khan's Zaman Park residence before the expiration of the ultimatum. Imran Khan had expressed concerns about being arrested, stating in a tweet, "Probably my last tweet before my next arrest. Police has [sic] surrounded my house."

Accusations of Incitement and Denial of Imminent Arrest

Minister Amir Mir accused Imran Khan of inciting people, stating that the PTI chief was misleading the public. The information minister denied Imran Khan's claim of police deployment to his residence, calling it a lie. Mir asserted that the police would not be conducting an operation at Zaman Park. However, the government claims to have evidence that 30-40 "terrorists" involved in the May 9 attacks on military installations are present at Khan's residence.

Government's Ultimatum for Handover of Suspects

During a press conference, Minister Amir Mir issued a 24-hour deadline for the PTI to surrender the "30-40 terrorists" taking refuge at Imran Khan's Lahore residence. The minister emphasized that the PTI should hand over these individuals to the police, warning that the law would take its course otherwise. He stated that the government possessed credible intelligence reports regarding the presence of these suspects.

Situation at Zaman Park and Media Access

A Geo News reporter present at Zaman Park confirmed that Imran Khan allowed media access to his residence. The intention behind this decision was to showcase the people present at the residence, contradicting the information minister's claim of several terrorists being there. Security has been tightened at Zaman Park, with only approved individuals permitted to enter the premises. Authorities have cordoned off the surrounding areas, preventing workers from reaching the residence via motorcycles. 

Ongoing Crackdown on PTI Leadership and Workers In the aftermath of the violent protests on May 9 following Imran Khan's arrest, there has been a series of arrests targeting PTI leaders and workers. These arrests, made under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order, include prominent figures such as Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Asad Umar, and Shireen Mazari. 

The crackdown was initiated after the attack on the General Headquarters during the protests. Conclusion: 

 As the deadline approaches, the Punjab government maintains its stance of refraining from raiding Imran Khan's residence. The situation at Zaman Park remains tense, with increased security measures and media access granted by Imran Khan. The crackdown on PTI leaders and workers continues, signaling a government response to the violent protests and attacks on military installations.