Islamabad: In a deeply somber press conference at Rescue-15, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, disclosed the tragic loss of a police officer who was fatally assaulted during protests at 26 no Chungi. The officer’s death was described as a “sad day for Islamabad Police” by the IG, who pledged that justice would be served for the officer’s family.
According to Islamabad Capital Police, the officer, a father of three, suffered critical injuries after being severely beaten by protesters, which ultimately led to his inability to breathe and his subsequent death. The violent incident also left 31 other police officers injured, all of whom were performing their duties to protect the public and maintain order during the demonstrations.
IGP Rizvi revealed that in response to the unrest, authorities have detained 878 individuals, including 100 foreigners, on charges ranging from terrorism and murder to resisting government authority and damaging public property. These arrests have led to cases being registered at eight different police stations.
The protests, which also saw damage to city infrastructure including a crane and a motorcycle being set on fire, and destruction of Safe City cameras, occurred across several locations like China Chowk and Kaswal Road. The actions of the protestors were reportedly instigated by leaders, and involved participants from various backgrounds, including Afghans, as noted by the police.
Furthermore, IGP Rizvi highlighted the broader security context, noting the ongoing visit of the Malaysian President to Islamabad and the forthcoming SCO conference. He condemned the attempts to disrupt these significant events, asserting that such actions were orchestrated by elements attempting to undermine state security.
The law enforcement response included the deployment of tear gas by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police against their counterparts from Islamabad, an action instigated by leaders. He assured that the law would be strictly enforced against those responsible for the violence and disruptions.