Islamabad IGP Announces Arrest of 954 Protesters, Weapons Seized Amid PTI Protests

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, revealed that 954 protesters have been arrested over the past three days, with 610 detained on Tuesday alone. Addressing a press conference alongside the Chief Commissioner Islamabad, the IGP detailed the confiscation of over 200 vehicles and 39 weapons, including Kalashnikovs, 12-bore guns, and other firearms.

“We have video evidence showing armed protesters advancing with masks on their faces,” Rizvi stated, emphasizing the presence of weapons among those arrested. He also noted that 52 out of the 71 injured individuals were law enforcement personnel. Protesters reportedly used large fans to blow tear gas fumes back at security forces, highlighting the tense and confrontational nature of the demonstrations.

The IGP reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance on acts of terrorism, declaring, “We will not tolerate any terrorist activities under any circumstances.”

The Chief Commissioner Islamabad echoed this sentiment, asserting that no one would be allowed to take the law into their own hands or challenge the state’s authority. He praised the role of law enforcement agencies in managing the volatile situation in the federal capital.

Additionally, the Chief Commissioner announced plans to verify the data of Afghan nationals residing in Islamabad, allowing only those with valid No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to remain in the city.