Pakistan Detains Imran Khan's Family Ahead of PTI March

Pakistani authorities detained Aleema Khan, sister of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, on September 20 in Lahore. Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ali Ijaz issued a 30-day detention order under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960, alleging that Khan incited violence during May 9 protests and continued to mobilize workers via social media.

Following Aleema Khan's arrest, her son Kasim Khan alleged that several other family members were abducted from their homes without explanation. These individuals included aunts Dr. Uzma and Noreen, and cousins Shershah, Shahrez, Azeem, and Sakeenah. Police in Lahore later confirmed the detention of Noreen Niazi, Uzma Khan, and Aleema's sons, Sher Shah and Shahrez, transferring them to Kot Lakhpat Jail.

The crackdown coincides with preparations by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for a nationwide protest and march toward Islamabad on September 27 to demand the release of Imran Khan. In response, security forces in Islamabad have intensified fortifications, including digging trenches and reinforcing the Red Zone with soil-filled bags.

Legal challenges have followed the arrests. Shahraiz Khan, son of Aleema Khan, filed a petition with the Lahore High Court arguing that the detention orders violated legal procedures and were issued after the arrests had already occurred. Justice Abher Gul Khan adjourned the hearing until September 25 to determine if the petition is maintainable. PTI leadership has condemned the detentions as illegal political retaliation, while Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has continued to advocate for political dialogue.