Authorities Trace Saad and Anas Rizvi
Pakistani law enforcement agencies have reportedly traced the whereabouts of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Saad Hussain Rizvi and his brother Anas Rizvi.
According to police sources, both men have been instructed to surrender to authorities. Officials said the arrests could take place at any moment, though it remains unclear whether either of them has sustained injuries.
Authorities are said to be examining the situation from all possible angles as part of a broader investigation into violent unrest that erupted last week in the town of Murīdke, near Lahore.
Accused of Violence During Muridke Protests
The Rizvi brothers are facing serious criminal charges, including murder, attempted murder, and violations of the Anti-Terrorism Act. These charges stem from violent protests in Muridke, where protesters allegedly opened fire on police, resulting in the death of a Station House Officer (SHO) and injuries to several others.
Police claim that the violence broke out during an anti-government protest organized by TLP, a hardline religious party known for its aggressive street mobilization and calls for stricter blasphemy laws.
Ongoing Crackdown on TLP Supporters
A senior police official confirmed that a search operation is ongoing against what he described as miscreant elements involved in the clashes.
Several TLP activists have reportedly been detained, and authorities are gathering intelligence to locate others believed to be in hiding.
The government has increased security across Punjab province, deploying additional police units to prevent further unrest.
Officials have emphasized that those responsible for inciting or participating in violence will be brought before the courts without delay.
Background on TLP and Previous Clashes
TLP has a long history of confrontations with the state. The group, founded by Khadim Hussain Rizvi, gained prominence in 2017 for organizing mass protests against changes to Pakistan’s blasphemy laws.
After Khadim Rizvi’s death in 2020, his son Saad Rizvi assumed leadership. Since then, the party has staged multiple large-scale demonstrations, often leading to violent clashes with law enforcement.
The latest incident reflects ongoing tensions between the government and the group, which continues to wield significant influence among hardline religious circles in Pakistan.
