Aleema Khan, sister of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, was taken into custody by Lahore police on Sunday, September 25, as she prepared to join a PTI‑organized march scheduled for September 27.
A PTI spokesperson confirmed the arrest to Reuters, noting that police had detained her while she was gathering supporters near her residence. The protest is part of a larger campaign to demand Khan's release after he has been jailed for three years.
Khan was imprisoned in December 2022 following a conviction on corruption charges, sparking nationwide protests. The PTI has called for a march to pressure the government and has mobilized thousands of supporters across the country.
Khan's family, including his two sons, have publicly expressed concern over his health and alleged a conspiracy involving the military's commander, General Asim Munir. The family has urged the public to stay calm amid the tensions.
The Lahore High Court is set to hear a petition filed by PTI activists on October 2, where the legality of Aleema's arrest will be scrutinized. The court's decision could set a precedent for future political arrests.
Aleema's eldest brother, a school teacher in Lahore, said he was shocked by the arrest and feared it could derail the protest, adding that ordinary citizens are watching closely for any sign of escalation.