TLP cases to be investigated by multi-agency JITs

LAHORE: Punjab authorities have formed 12 Joint Investigation Teams (JITs) to probe cases against extremist elements of the banned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), ARY News reported.

The Punjab Home Department issued notifications establishing seven JITs in Lahore and five in Sheikhupura, tasked with investigating 12 high-profile cases registered under terrorism and other serious charges.

The JITs will comprise representatives from the police, Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and other sensitive agencies, ensuring a coordinated approach to the investigations. Special prosecutors have also been appointed to expedite the legal process.

Punjab police had requested the formation of JITs to speed up the investigation of the cases. According to officials, over 75 cases have been registered against the banned TLP, with more than 2,000 suspects arrested so far.

The JITs are expected to conclude their investigations promptly, bringing clarity to the cases and ensuring that the extremist elements are held accountable.

Earlier, security sources have stated that the organizers of the TLP’s recent violent protests have been exposed, and a list of their names has been prepared.

Sources have stated that complete data has been provided to law enforcement agencies in this respect.

“With geo-fencing the countrywide network and command points have been pointed out. Call data records have exposed the masterminds and key characters,” sources said.

According to sources, a list of the TLP financers and facilitators has also been prepared, and a crackdown is expected at any time.

The faces of arsonists have been identified with videos and preparations are underway for raids, sources said.

Moreover, special teams have been active to scrutinize suspected funding to TLP with security banking records.

Security sources have said that the zero-tolerance policy being followed against the elements involved in lawless incidents.

Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Saad Hussain Rizvi and several TLP workers have been charged with terrorism in connection with violent attacks on police in Rawat, Taxila, and Muridke.