May 9 Part-II: One policeman killed, 70 injured in violent PTI Protest, claims Azma Bokhari

LAHORE: Tensions reached a boiling point today as violent protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters resulted in the death of a police officer and left dozens injured, according to Punjab government spokesperson Azma Bokhari. Speaking to the media, Bokhari condemned the violence and accused the PTI leadership of inciting unrest, leading to a tragic loss of life.

Bokhari revealed that during the protests, a young policeman was killed, and five others were critically injured. In total, around 70 police officers sustained serious injuries, many of whom are receiving medical treatment. Additionally, several law enforcement officers were reportedly taken hostage by protesters.

“This protest has resulted in the tragic martyrdom of one of our brave policemen, with five others in a critical condition,” Bokhari said, expressing her concern over the escalation of violence. “Seventy officials are seriously injured, and many have been taken hostage by the protesters.”

The spokesperson further criticized PTI leadership, accusing them of manipulating religious sentiments for political gain. She expressed her disbelief over the violent tactics employed by the protesters, suggesting they were attempting to escalate the situation into a deadly confrontation.

“PTI’s leadership has misused religion to fuel political agendas. I don’t know what Sharia law they are bringing today,” Bokhari remarked, referring to the controversial role of religion in the protest’s rhetoric. She also pointed fingers at PTI’s top figures, including the sons of party founder Imran Khan, accusing them of inciting violence by participating in the protest.

“The sons of the PTI founder should come out to protest, but they are putting people’s lives at risk for their father’s cause,” she added, criticizing their involvement in the unrest.

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Bokhari also targeted a female protest leader who allegedly invoked religious texts during the protests, questioning her authenticity. “The lady read the Quran today, and I don’t know if she did it wrongly on purpose or if she simply doesn’t know how to read it,” she said, raising doubts about the religious messages being promoted.

In her remarks, Bokhari also highlighted the involvement of PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur, who she claimed had requested 1,500 policemen in plain clothes to assist in the protest. These officers were allegedly involved in violent confrontations with the police, exacerbating the situation.

The unrest continues as PTI workers, angered by the crackdown, are reportedly heading toward Islamabad in large caravans. The situation remains tense, with widespread concerns over further clashes between law enforcement and protesters in the coming days.

The “May 9 Part-II” protest has now become a grim reminder of the violent events that took place on May 9, sparking widespread fears of more bloodshed in the streets as the conflict shows no signs of abating.