Authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lakki Marwat and Bannu districts have imposed restrictions under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) for one month, banning public gatherings, protests and other activities amid concerns over the prevailing law and order situation.
According to separate notifications issued on November 14 and 15, the deputy commissioners of both districts introduced the measures to maintain public peace, prevent security incidents and ensure the uninterrupted movement of people and traffic.
In Lakki Marwat, Deputy Commissioner Shahid Rafique imposed the restrictions from November 14 to December 13 following a report submitted by the district police officer highlighting security concerns and the possibility of public gatherings, processions and marches.
The notification warned that such activities could interfere with daily life, disrupt essential public services and create difficulties for residents.
According to the order, the gatherings were likely to “obstruct the free movement of the general public, disrupt public services and traffic, disturb peace and tranquility”.
The district administration consequently prohibited public gatherings, processions, rallies, assemblies and marches considered likely to disturb public peace.
The restrictions also include a ban on pillion riding on motorcycles and the display, carrying or possession of weapons of all kinds.
Authorities in neighbouring Bannu district issued a separate notification imposing restrictions for one month, similarly citing the need to maintain law and order and prevent disruptions to public movement.
The measures reflect security concerns in the two districts, where officials have invoked Section 144 as a preventive measure to regulate activities considered potentially disruptive.
While the Lakki Marwat notification specifies the prohibited activities and the period of enforcement, the available details of the Bannu order do not provide a complete breakdown of its restrictions.
The orders are intended to remain in effect for approximately one month as district administrations seek to maintain public safety and prevent disturbances.