Around 1800 rioters arrested across Pakistan after TLP protest

ISLAMABAD: As per the Ministry of Interior, nearly 1800 rioters have been apprehended, countrywide, by law enforcement agencies for being allegedly involved in vandalism and harassment of citizens during protests led by far right Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

The Interior Ministry provided the number of arrestees who had been booked under relevant sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA).

According to details, the demonstrations, which were followed by a Supreme Court verdict acquitting Asia Bibi, caused massive loss to the country, in which the rioters reportedly set ablaze vehicles and properties, in addition to torturing fellow countrymen.

In Islamabad, 700 people have been booked in cases, 56 arrested and 26 have been remanded.The order to imprison 19 rioters under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) has also been issued.

Moreover, 70 rioters have been taken into custody from Sheikhupura.

In Karachi, cases have been registered in 34 police stations across the metropolis against rioters. In Lahore, eight suspects have been sent on a 14-day physical remand.

A case has also been registered against former MNA Aslam Kachela and 300 others in Sargodha, whereas, seven have been booked in DI Khan.

As per police officials, the miscreants were traced through videos shot during the demonstrations.

“In Sheikhupura, the rioters had not only damaged property but clashed and wounded 34 policemen,” police officials added.

Help govt identify the miscreants in TLP protest

The Ministry of Interior has set up a complaint cell, urging citizens to share pictures and videos of those involved in damaging state and private properties in the name of protests. They have been asked to share such pictures and videos on 03315480011 to help identify the rioters.

The ministry has assured that name and number of those citizens, who will share pictures and videos of violent protesters, will be kept under wraps.

Moreover, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat also announced, “03359950236 is our official Whatsapp number which will be used to receive complaints & any video, photo, evidence for locating/identifying the culprits who damaged public /private properties and injured people in the area of Islamabad Capital Territory.”