SHANGLA: Police raids on houses and hideouts of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and workers continued across Shangla following the imposition of Governor’s Rule, with former PTI provincial assembly candidate and former Chairman of Tehsil Council Puran, Haji Abdul Maula Khan, and his son Talha Mehmood reportedly arrested during a late-night operation.
The arrests took place in Puran during the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday. Police operations have also been reported in Dandai, Alpurai, Chakesar, Besham, Shahpur Kana, Karora, Aloch, Ajmir, Alandor and other areas of the district.
Reports of further detentions have emerged from Alpuri Police Station and other localities, although the total number of people taken into custody remains unclear.
Allegations of Property Damage During Raids
PTI circles have alleged that some police operations involved damage to windowpanes and furniture in residential properties, as well as violations of chadar and char diwari—the traditional principle of respecting the privacy and sanctity of the home.
Party workers have circulated photographs and videos of the operations on social media, expressing concern over the treatment of family members during the raids.
However, an official police response to the allegations and a comprehensive account of the operations had not emerged in the information available for this report.
Political and Social Circles Express Concern
President of the Shangla District Bar Association, Sulaiman Shah Khan Advocate, along with local Awami National Party (ANP) leaders and other political and social figures, has criticised the raids through social media posts and statements.
They have stressed that law enforcement operations should respect the sanctity of homes, fundamental rights and Pashtun traditions. They have also called on the relevant authorities to ensure that action against suspects remains within the limits of the law.
Political and social representatives have emphasised that maintaining peace and order should go hand in hand with protecting civil liberties and preventing unnecessary hardship for families.
Security Tightened Across the District
Security arrangements across Shangla remain strict on the fifth day following the imposition of Governor’s Rule. Additional police personnel have reportedly been deployed at important locations and intersections, while checkpoints and vehicle inspections have increased.
The heightened security presence has affected daily life and political activities in several areas, according to local accounts.
Meanwhile, some prominent PTI leaders have remained out of public view, while other party leaders and spokespersons continue to use social media to condemn the raids and share footage of police operations. PTI supporters have described the actions as pressure on party workers.
The situation remains sensitive, with political circles calling for the maintenance of law and order alongside respect for legal protections, civil liberties and the privacy of citizens.
The full picture is expected to become clearer once police provide official details about the reasons for the raids, the number of people detained and the allegations of property damage.