Days before Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s planned September 27 protest march, former prime minister Imran Khan‘s son Kasim Khan has alleged that several members of his extended family have been detained and that their whereabouts have not been disclosed.In a series of posts on X, Kasim alleged that his aunts Dr Uzma and Noreen, along with cousins Shershah and Shahrez, were taken from their homes after authorities allegedly entered the properties and forced them into vehicles. The claims could not be independently verified.“This is a disgrace. Now my Aunts Dr. Uzma and Noureen, along with my cousins Shershah and Shahrez have now been abducted as well,” Kasim said.“They have broken into my aunties and cousins houses and forced them into vehicles with no explanation. No reasons for arrest have been stated. No news has been released as to where they have been taken,” he alleged.Kasim described the alleged detentions as “criminal behaviour” and called for international attention to the matter.
More relatives allegedly detained
Kasim later said the two children of Shahrez, aged four and six, had initially been missing. He subsequently said the children were safe but alleged that two more cousins, Azeem and Sakeenah, had also been taken into custody.“Hearing news that my cousin’s children are now safe. Meanwhile, two more of my cousins have been arrested. Azeem and Sakeenah. No reasons given. No location given,” he said.The allegations follow the detention of Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan in Lahore on Sunday. She was ordered to be held for 30 days under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, with the authorities citing public safety and order concerns. She was later taken to Kot Lakhpat jail, according to police and Pakistani media reports.
Aleema’s detention ahead of PTI march
Lahore deputy commissioner Muhammad Ali Ijaz issued the detention order under the MPO law. The order cited allegations involving protests, roadblocks and the mobilisation of PTI workers.PTI chairman barrister Gohar Ali Khan condemned Aleema’s detention and demanded her release, arguing that it could further increase tensions ahead of the September 27 demonstration.Aleema’s son Shahrez had earlier alleged that his mother was “abducted” after leaving her home and said the family had no information about where she had been taken.The PTI march is being organised to demand the release of Imran Khan, who remains in jail and is facing multiple legal cases. Pakistani authorities have stepped up measures against PTI supporters ahead of the planned protest.Meanwhile, Pakistani media have reported that Imran Khan underwent a medical check-up in jail amid continuing concerns raised by his family over his health.The government has cited public-order concerns in relation to Aleema Khan’s detention, while PTI and members of Imran Khan’s family have disputed the action and demanded information about those taken into custody.