Attacks on security forces will not be tolerated under the guise of protests
Inspector General of Police Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, announced on Wednesday that a total of 954 protesters were arrested over the past three days, with 610 of those arrests occurring just on Tuesday.
The arrests were part of the law enforcement response to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf protests in the capital.
Speaking at a press conference alongside the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, IGP Rizvi reported the seizure of more than 200 vehicles and 39 different types of weapons, including Kalashnikovs, 12-bore guns, and other firearms, from protesters during the demonstration.
“We have video evidence showing armed protesters advancing with masks on their faces,” Rizvi stated, highlighting the seriousness of the unrest. He further revealed that 71 security personnel were injured, with 52 injured in a single day, including 26 Rangers.
He further explained that protesters had employed large fans to blow tear gas fumes back towards security forces, intensifying the confrontation. He emphasised that all roads leading to and from Islamabad are open, and routine activities are continuing without disruption. “No one will be allowed to challenge the state’s authority,” he asserted.
While containers have been removed, patrolling and security checks will continue at key locations. “Outsiders will not be allowed to stay in Islamabad without security clearance,” Muhammad Ali Randhawa reiterated.
He also noted that protesters attacked journalists, prompting authorities to move the media from the area. “Fuel pumps were temporarily shut down due to concerns that they might be set on fire.”
IG Ali Nasir highlighted that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, but violence, attacks on police, and damage to property cross the line into terrorism.
“When protesters use firearms, attack security personnel, and confine citizens to their homes, it ceases to be a protest and becomes an act of terrorism, against which we have every right to take action.”
He added that attacks on security forces will not be tolerated under the guise of protests. “Security personnel were assaulted, some were martyred, and others injured. A variety of guns, including Kalashnikovs and pistols, were used, and live ammunition was fired.”
IG Ali Nasir also disclosed that the violence was orchestrated with state-level resources from one province. “Tear gas shells were manufactured, large fans were built to blow smoke towards security personnel, and protesters wore masks and carried various weapons. We have seized 39 firearms, including Kalashnikovs and pistols.”
