Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly denounced the violent attack on Rangers and police officers on Srinagar Highway, allegedly carried out by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protestors. The demonstrators are now moving towards the Red Zone in Islamabad, escalating tensions in the capital.
Earlier reports revealed that miscreants deliberately ran their vehicle over Rangers personnel, resulting in the martyrdom of four Rangers and injuries to two police officers.
The Prime Minister directed authorities to swiftly identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice. He also expressed profound sorrow over the tragic incident, offering prayers for the martyred souls and strength to their grieving families.
Paying homage to the sacrifices of the fallen Rangers and police officers, PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of providing the injured personnel with top-quality medical care.
“This is not a peaceful protest—it is extremism. Pakistan cannot afford bloodshed or chaos driven by political motives,” the Prime Minister stated firmly.
Tensions Rise as Protestors March Toward Red Zone
The situation in Islamabad remains volatile as Bushra Bibi leads PTI protestors toward the highly sensitive Red Zone, despite repeated government warnings.
The federal government has deployed the military to manage the situation under Article 245 of the Constitution and has threatened to impose a curfew if protestors attempt to enter the city’s restricted areas.
The timing of the unrest is especially delicate, coinciding with the official visit of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to Islamabad.
Authorities have placed shipping containers across major roads and streets in the capital to block access. Security has been tightened, with heavy contingents of police and paramilitary forces patrolling the city in riot gear.
The violence has already taken a grim toll, with over 100 police personnel injured, many critically, highlighting the severity of the clashes. Additionally, reports indicate that one civilian has also lost their life amid the unrest.
The government remains resolute in its stance to prevent further escalation, prioritizing law and order in the face of ongoing political turmoil.
