Sanaullah says govt to call in armed forces to deal with PTI's long march

Islamabad: Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah Wednesday said the government would call in the armed forces including the Pakistan Army and rangers to deal with the participants of the PTI's long march.

He said the troops would be called in to deal with any unforeseen situations amid PTI's upcoming long march in Islamabad.

PTI Chairman Imran Khan, a day ago, announced to start his party's long march on October 28 (Friday). The party will enter the federal capital by November 4, as shared by PTI leader Asad Umar.

During a private channel talk show, Sanaullah said the government will take PTI's long march and its participants head-on by taking all possible security measures for the maintenance of law and order.

The minister said the army  would be called under Article 245 [of the Constitution], adding the police and FC would form the first line [of defence] and they will be armed with tear gas [shells] and rubber bullets to control the mob.

Sanaullah also hinted at arresting the PTI chief and added that help from PML-N workers may also be sought if chaos ensues amid the protests.

The PML-N leader claimed that the number of protestors with Imran Khan would not be over 15,000.