Armed hordes, roadblocks are equal to sacrilege: Khawaja Asif

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday said that organizing armed hordes, blocking roads and making people hostage is equal to desecration of religion.

“When brutalities and bloodletting was going on in Gaza for two years no one remembered to protest, now when the ceasefire takes place, protests have been started,” defence minister said.

Khawaja Asif urged for ceasing the practice to take the society hostage and teaching violence in the name of religion.

Karachi police force has been on high alert after a religious party announced protests at five spots in the city on Monday, ARY News reported.

Karachi police authorities earlier said that no protests are currently taking place anywhere in the city. However, heavy contingents of policemen have been deployed at various locations as a precautionary measure.

According to officials, police are fully prepared to deal with any potential demonstrations or unrest. They warned that strict action will be taken against those violating Section 144.

Officials reported that ten individuals involved in rioting have been arrested, and legal proceedings are underway.

Earlier, a religious group announced plans to hold sit-ins at five thoroughfares across Karachi — Al-Asif Square, Star Gate, Five Star Chowrangi, Tower, and Numaish.