PM wants rioters involved in May 9 violence arrested in 72 hours

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the Punjab government on Saturday to arrest vandals, and those involved in arson attacks in the aftermath of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan's arrest, within 72 hours. Chairing the meeting at the Punjab Safe City Authority Headquarters in Lahore, the premier stated that it was a “critical task that requires swift action to ensure the safety and security of our citizens”. “I am setting a target for all responsible culprits, planners, instigators, and attackers to be apprehended within the next 72 hours,” the premier said. Imran’s arrest from inside the premises of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on May 9 triggered protests in many cities of the country by party activists and supporters as they clashed with the police. Read Imran asks ISPR to 'listen carefully' as he calls out senior military official again In an unprecedented show of vandalism, PTI supporters attacked and caused damage to the historic Corps' Commander’s House — originally known as Jinnah House and which once served as the residence of the founding father of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah — in Lahore. During the meeting today, the prime minister said that the “law will take action against those who have made plans and attacked the police". “The law will take action against them so that an exemplary precedent is set, demonstrating that those who act against the cherished homeland and the institutions that constantly risk their lives to defeat enemies will face consequences,” he added. I have given law enforcement apparatus a target of 72 hours to arrest all those involved in facilitating, abetting and perpetrating the disgraceful incidents of arson, ransacking, sabotage & damaging public & private properties. All available resources including technological aid… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 13, 2023 PM Shehbaz further said that any attempts to disrupt the peace and stability of our nation was "absolutely unacceptable", adding that this is a critical moment that required our unwavering commitment. “We must act decisively and without delay. It is a matter of utmost urgency, and failure is not an option,” he maintained. The premier added that the culprits will be apprehended and cases will be filed against them in Anti-Terrorism Courts (ATCs) in accordance with the law and Constitution. Read more Imran claims 'hit on head' during arrest on May 9 “I have requested an increase in the number of ATCs to ensure swift and efficient proceedings. We are determined to take all necessary measures, even if it means conducting proceedings at night, to ensure justice is served and the rule of law prevails.” PM Shehbaz further stated that the ATCs should begin work immediately without any delay. “It is crucial to set an example that no terrorist or enemy will dare cast an ill eye upon Pakistan’s institutions until the day of judgement,” he said. The prime minister added that he has also requested caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi to ensure that those responsible for the unrest were arrested and brought to court. Earlier in the day, the Punjab government decided to constitute a joint investigation team (JIT) to probe riots and vandalism incidents that took place in the province following the arrest of PTI chief Imran Khan.

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