Lahore, October 14: Law enforcement agencies in Pakistan have reportedly traced the whereabouts of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief, Saad Hussain Rizvi, after weeks of speculation about his location. Reliable sources within the security apparatus have confirmed that both Saad Rizvi and his close aide, Anas Rizvi, have been located, and their arrest is expected in the coming days.
According to security sources, the agencies have been conducting a series of intelligence-based operations to track the movement of Saad Rizvi, who had reportedly gone into hiding following recent clashes between TLP supporters and law enforcement personnel in parts of Punjab. After extensive surveillance and information gathering from multiple districts, officials believe they now have concrete leads on his location.
It has also been reported that law enforcement units have intensified their operations in Lahore and surrounding areas, where Rizvi and his associates are believed to have been moving between safe houses. The agencies are said to be coordinating closely to ensure that the operation is carried out without causing unnecessary confrontation or civilian unrest, given TLP’s large support base in several urban centers.
Meanwhile, the authorities are assessing reports about whether Saad Rizvi or Anas Rizvi sustained injuries during recent incidents. “At this stage, we cannot confirm any information regarding their condition,” said a senior security official on condition of anonymity. “However, if either of them is injured, it would be in their best interest to surrender immediately so that they can receive proper medical care and face the law in an orderly manner.”
The government has been under pressure to restore order following multiple violent demonstrations organized by TLP workers in recent weeks. The protests, sparked by renewed calls for the release of detained party members and the expulsion of the French ambassador, had resulted in widespread disruption and damage to public property. Several police personnel were injured during the clashes, prompting the state to launch a decisive crackdown on the group’s leadership.
Saad Rizvi, the son of the late Khadim Hussain Rizvi, took charge of TLP in November 2020 after his father’s death. Since then, he has emerged as a key figure in Pakistan’s far-right religious politics, often mobilizing thousands of supporters across the country. His fiery speeches and mass rallies have drawn both fervent followers and harsh criticism for inciting confrontation with state institutions.
Government officials have reiterated that while every citizen has the right to peaceful protest, no individual or group will be allowed to challenge the writ of the state. “There will be no compromise on law and order,” a senior government representative said. “The security forces are fully authorized to act within the law to ensure peace and stability.”
As of now, the authorities have not disclosed the exact location where Saad Rizvi and Anas Rizvi were traced. However, credible sources confirm that both are within the country and that their movements have been under close watch for several days.
Political observers suggest that Rizvi’s potential arrest could once again mobilize his supporters, who have a history of organizing massive street protests. Analysts warn that the coming days could be crucial for the government’s handling of the situation — balancing firmness with restraint to prevent another wave of unrest.
For now, the security agencies appear confident that they have cornered the TLP leadership. The final move, officials say, will be made “soon and strategically,” ensuring that the operation achieves its goal without sparking unnecessary violence.
