Islamabad Chief Commissioner vows to maintain security as Afghan nationals arrested in protests
Despite the violence, Randhawa assured those normal activities had resumed in Islamabad.
ISLAMABAD: Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, Mohammad Ali Randhawa, declared that no foreigner would be allowed to disrupt the peace of the capital, following violent protests that rocked the city. He revealed that among the arrested demonstrators, there were Afghan nationals involved in the unrest.
Addressing a joint press conference with Islamabad’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ali Nasir Rizvi, Randhawa emphasized the importance of maintaining the state’s authority, especially with the visit of Belarusian President and his delegation in the city. “During this crucial visit, attempts were made to challenge the state’s writ, but we will not tolerate any such disruption,” Randhawa stated, adding that law enforcement agencies swiftly took action to restore order.
The Chief Commissioner also highlighted those protests had turned violent, with demonstrators defying the legal permissions granted for peaceful protests. “While the courts had permitted the protests, the protesters, including foreign nationals, insisted on entering sensitive areas like Blue Area and Red Zone. They caused damage to the beauty of Islamabad, including destroying green belts,” he said.
IGP Ali Nasir Rizvi underscored the distinction between peaceful protests and terrorism, stressing that such violent actions were beyond the scope of lawful demonstrations. “This was not just a protest; it turned into a terrorist act. Security personnel were fired upon, and a variety of weapons were used during the protest. This kind of violence will not be tolerated,” Rizvi said. He added that the protesters attacked police and Rangers, threw government-issued tear gas canisters, and vandalized CCTV cameras.
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The police chief confirmed that 71 security personnel were injured during the clashes, and warned that terrorism under the guise of protests would not be allowed to continue. “We will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of the city, and those responsible for these acts will be held accountable,” Rizvi emphasized.
Despite the violence, Randhawa assured those normal activities had resumed in Islamabad. “All major routes are clear, and the situation is under control,” he confirmed, thanking law enforcement for their prompt action in restoring peace.
The protests, which involved a mix of local and foreign nationals, have sparked concerns over foreign interference and the destabilizing impact on Pakistan’s capital. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation and ensure the rule of law prevails in Islamabad.
