Several leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in Swat have gone into hiding after police nominated them in cases for speeches inciting hatred.

In Mingora, police filed a case against 12 PTI members including former MPA Fazal Hakeem, former Mingora Mayor Shahid Ali and Murad Saeed’s brother, Kaleem, for a hateful speech made in Nishat Chowk on May 10.

Earlier, a complaint had been registered Saidu Sharif Police Station against 200 people including former MPA Saleem ur Rehman, former Mayor Shahid Ali and Fazal Hakeem for ‘spreading fear’ and making speeches against institutions. The case includes anti-terrorism clauses as well.

Another case was filed in Khwaza Khela Police Station for ‘statements against institutions’ against former MPA Mian Sharafat Ali and multiple other PTI workers.

In Mata, three important figures belonging to the PTI were arrested after a case was filed against them.

PTI has seen a slew of defections as leaders continue to be imprisoned and a general crackdown remains underway against the party.