A dramatic series of events unfolded near Adiala Road on Thursday as several senior leaders and family members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, Imran Khan, were taken into custody by police just before a planned meeting with the incarcerated leader.

Among those detained were Imran Khan’s sisters Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan, and Noreen Khan, as well as his cousin Qasim Niazi. Prominent political figures, including National Assembly Opposition Leader Omer Ayub Khan, Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmed Khan Bachchar, and former state minister Zartaj Gul were also arrested, along with Sahibzada Hamid Raza.

Imran Khan's family members and PTI leaders were, however, later released at Chakri Interchange, from where the police force returned.

Sources confirmed that the arrests were made as PTI leaders gathered in an under-construction plaza on Adiala Road, reportedly to meet with the party founder. A prisoner van was seen stationed outside the building, and police officers entered the premises to detain individuals after showing arrest warrants for at least seven people.

According to witnesses, the warrants were presented for Imran Khan’s sisters, cousin Qasim Zaman Khan, and several key PTI figures, including Ahmed Bachchar and Sahibzada Hamid Raza.

Standoff between PTI leaders and police

The PTI leaders attempted to resist the detentions, engaging in a heated exchange with police personnel. Despite the resistance, police maintained their position, stating clearly: “We will arrest all of them.”

The situation intensified when police locked down the main gate of the plaza to prevent further movement. The PTI leadership, including Aleema Khan, was present inside the building at the time.

Omer Ayub reaches Adiala Road on motorcycle

Opposition Leader Omer Ayub arrived at Dahgal checkpost near Adiala on a motorcycle, claiming he had to bypass several police checkpoints and pass through several villages after being stopped in Gorakhpur.

Speaking to the media, Ayub criticized the authorities, calling the situation a “moment of reflection” for the Supreme Court. “How can state officials stop the opposition leader?” he asked. “The judiciary must establish its writ.”

He further questioned the crackdown on political meetings, saying, “If we meet, what kind of heaven will fall on earth?” He insisted that the PTI delegation only intended to discuss party matters with the detained party founder. “Those named by Imran Khan himself are not even being allowed to meet him,” he added.

Ayub was later seen consulting with Aleema Khan inside the plaza before police sealed off the premises.

Heavy police presence outside plaza

Law enforcement maintained a tight cordon around the plaza, preventing anyone from entering or leaving. Tensions remained high into the evening, as PTI supporters gathered in the vicinity amid chants demanding the release of their leaders.