ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered authorities to take stringent measures against the protesters responsible for the martyrdom and injury of law enforcement personnel, as well as the destruction of public property during the violent sit-in protests in Islamabad on November 24.

These remarks were made during a meeting of the task force assigned to investigate the riots in the federal capital, according to Express News.

In the wake of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally, which saw over 10,000 protesters breach a public gathering ban and clash with security forces, the prime minister formed a task force to identify those involved in the violence and ensure legal action. Riot police used tear gas to disperse protesters who gathered near the heavily barricaded D-Chowk.

After intense clashes, PTI leadership eventually called off the sit-in, but the unrest led to heightened political and security tensions in Islamabad.

During the task force meeting, Prime Minister Sharif stressed the importance of regular updates on the

legal proceedings against those involved in the riots, with progress being reviewed on a weekly basis. He strongly condemned the attack, particularly because it occurred during the official visit of the Belarusian president, which caused embarrassment for the country.

To address long-term security challenges, the prime minister announced plans to establish a world-class anti-riot force in Pakistan and upgrade the Islamabad Safe City project to international standards.

The project will include the establishment of a new forensic lab, with all necessary resources allocated to ensure its success.

Prime Minister Sharif was briefed that weapons, cartridges, and other evidence collected from the crime scene would be sent for forensic analysis. Authorities are working swiftly to identify the rioters, who will soon be brought to court for legal action.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarra, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, and Advisor to PM Rana Sanaullah.

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 04 2024

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