Islamabad: Recent violent protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have resulted in indirect economic losses of 192 billion rupees per day, The statement condemns the actions of PTI and its social media activists, accusing them of fostering division and confusion within society through misinformation.
According to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, elements responsible for inciting chaos, whether domestic or international, will face legal consequences. The press release asserts that the people of Pakistan, particularly those in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reject the violent political tactics employed by PTI and remain committed to peace and stability.
The statement highlights an incident on November 26, where protesters entered the Red Zone, defying Islamabad High Court orders, and engaged in violent clashes with law enforcement agencies (LEAs). The LEAs, including Police and Rangers, were deployed without live ammunition to disperse the crowd. The press release notes that PTI leaders and armed participants initiated violence and then fled the scene.
Following the clearance of protesters, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the site and held press briefings. The Interior Ministry accuses PTI of conducting a coordinated social media campaign using fabricated content to mislead the public about the events and divert attention from the protests.
The Ministry also mentions instances of misinformation dissemination by PTI’s political leadership and certain foreign media outlets, lacking credible evidence. It emphasized the dedication of LEA officers who endured hardships to safeguard citizens’ lives and property, with some sustaining critical injuries.
The press release criticizes the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for making inflammatory statements and inciting youth, instead of addressing the situation responsibly. It reports the recovery of 39 lethal weapons from protesters, including 18 automatic firearms, and notes the arrest of several foreign individuals involved in the protests.
The Ministry estimates material damages in the hundreds of millions, with 11 LEA vehicles, including prison vans, damaged during the unrest.