The Pakistani government announced a ban on the Pashtun Protection Movement, accusing it of criticizing the military and launching a crackdown on civilians in border areas with Afghanistan.

The movement, which opposes what it describes as military violations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has organized largely peaceful marches demanding better protection of rights.

In a statement from the Ministry of Interior, the movement was designated as a “banned organization” due to what it deemed a threat to security.

The movement also reported that over 200 activists were arrested recently ahead of a scheduled council meeting.