LAHORE: The Township police Monday arrested four security guards of a TV anchor and lodged three cases against them for display of arms in violation of rules ahead of the general election.

The police seized the guns and other weapons from the offenders amid fierce resistance by them in the presence of the TV anchor.

The suspects reportedly displayed weapons in a public meeting during the visit of the anchor to support his friend who was said to be an independent candidate.

“We have arrested four gunmen for violating the laws enforced under the instructions of the Election Commission of Pakistan ECP) ahead of general election,” Saddar Division SP Muaz Zafar told Dawn.

He said the police had received a complaint that some private men had arrived in the area carrying lethal weapons and causing harassment.

Responding to the call, the police reached the area, arrested all the four gunmen and seized their weapons. They also lodged three cases against the suspects under sections 183 and 188, of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).

Mr Muaz further said the police also added section 16-B of Elections Act 2017. To a question, he said, the TV anchor had come along with his guards to support the candidate from Township.

Published in Dawn, July 3rd, 2018