Punjab IGP says ‘no-go area’ outside Zaman Park cleared

LAHORE: Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Anwar said that a “no-go area” had been created outside Imran Khan’s residence which was cleared by Punjab police, ARY News reported.

Addressing a press conference, flanked by caretaker Punjab information minister Amir Mir, Punjab IGP said that police conducted search operation outside Zaman Park on ATC judge orders. He claimed that petrol bombs were thrown at police personnel by PTI workers during search operation around Zaman Park.

“Police entered Zaman Park to arrest suspects who hurled petrol bombs and stones on constables from inside Zaman Park residence,” he claimed, adding that all “terrorists” present inside Zaman Park house had been apprehended.

The IGP further claimed that a cache of explosives, petrol bombs, and bomb-making materials had been recovered from the site. He clarified that police had not entered the area where Imran’s wife was present.

Usman Anwar said that all those suspects arrested from Zaman Park would be produced before court tomorrow.

Earlier, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has said that Zaman Park has been cleared and police found 16 rifles from Imran Khan’s residence.

“Zaman Park was a ‘no-go area’ causing hassle for general public,” Sanaullah said. “I.G. Punjab will bring all things before the nation,” federal minister said.

“Police had search warrant for the PTI leader’s home and found 16 rifles from the residence,” he said.

“People also pelted stones at policemen today, which went to the area to clear the ‘no-go area’, he said.

Interior Minister said that there is no plan to arrest Imran Khan, he is appearing before the court, “it was our objective” he said.