LAHORE: The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province for five days following multiple security alerts warning of possible terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings, vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attacks and targeted killings.
The restrictions, issued by the Home Department under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), will remain in force from September 13 to September 17.
According to the notification, law enforcement and intelligence agencies have reported a “serious and imminent threat” to public safety, peace and property across Punjab from militant and terrorist organisations as well as hostile intelligence agencies.
The authorities said multiple threat alerts had been received regarding possible attacks during large public gatherings, which could be targeted to cause casualties, social unrest and disruption of public order.
Public gatherings banned
Under the restrictions, processions and gatherings involving five or more people at public places, roads, highways and open spaces have been prohibited throughout the province.
The Home Department said public assemblies and demonstrations could potentially become targets for terrorist attacks.
It also warned of a strong possibility that certain elements could organise activities or demonstrations likely to result in the gathering of large numbers of people.
The Punjab police chief, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), Special Branch and several district administrations have called for immediate preventive measures in response to the security alerts.
The government has also prohibited any activity aimed at inciting people to participate in unlawful assemblies.
Section 144 Imposed in Rawalpindi Amid Security Concerns
Weddings and religious gatherings exempted
The restrictions do not apply to several routine activities and official proceedings.
Marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, prayers at mosques and other places of worship, court proceedings and official government events have been exempted from the ban.
The government has also imposed separate restrictions on carrying, displaying or brandishing weapons at public places.
However, the weapons-related restriction does not apply to law enforcement, intelligence and security personnel while performing their official duties.
ترجمان محکمہ داخلہ پنجاب
لاہور 13 ستمبر:
پنجاب بھر میں دفعہ 144 کا نفاذپنجاب بھر میں عوامی مقامات، شاہراہوں یا کھلی جگہ پر 5 یا زائد افراد کے اجتماع، جلوس یا اکٹھ پر مکمل پابندی عائد
عوامی مقامات پر ہر قسم کے ہتھیار لے جانے اور ان کی نمائش پر بھی مکمل پابندی عائد
غیر قانونی… pic.twitter.com/p0HLatVE5u
— Home Department Punjab (@homedptpunjab) September 13, 2026
Authorities put on high alert
The latest measures reflect heightened security concerns across Punjab amid warnings of possible militant activity.
Authorities have been directed to take preventive measures and maintain vigilance to reduce the risk of attacks, particularly at locations where large numbers of people could gather.
The five-day restrictions will remain in place until September 17 unless the government issues further orders.
