Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Pakistan – Tensions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have eased following a large-scale crackdown on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protesters, who had been marching toward the federal capital. Sources have confirmed that law enforcement agencies (LEAs) have successfully traced TLP’s chief Saad Hussain Rizvi and another prominent leader, Anas Rizvi, who are now expected to be arrested shortly.
Authorities have urged the two leaders to surrender voluntarily to ensure they receive appropriate medical attention, though the extent of their injuries remains unclear. The protest, which began with a large march toward Islamabad, had been escalating, with TLP workers continuing to demand action despite growing opposition.
Protest Escalates, Violence Erupts
The heart of the unrest was Muridke, where clashes intensified. As police moved in to disperse the crowd, the situation quickly escalated. According to police, a rifle seized from Anas Rizvi was allegedly used to fire at officers during the protests. Although social media reports claimed numerous casualties, hospital sources only confirmed a handful of injuries, with three fatalities reported—one police officer, one bystander, and one TLP worker.
The protests led to significant disruptions, including vehicle fires, property damage, and violent confrontations between protesters and law enforcement. Witnesses reported that protesters engaged in stone-pelting, using petrol bombs, and attacking police officers with sticks embedded with nails. The police responded with tear gas and baton charges in an effort to regain control of the situation.
FIR Registered Against TLP Leaders
In the aftermath of the clashes, the Rawat Police Station in Rawalpindi registered a First Information Report (FIR) against TLP leaders, including Saad Rizvi and Qari Bilal, as well as 21 other activists. The FIR includes anti-terrorism clauses and accuses the group of blocking roads, attacking police officers, and attempting to steal ammunition. The report details the use of weapons, including stolen police firearms, and the possession of dangerous items such as petrol bombs and explosives.
The FIR also highlights the injuries sustained by police personnel, with one constable wounded by gunfire and others assaulted by protesters. In total, 25 additional cases have been filed in different parts of the city, covering charges of terrorism, rioting, and attempted murder.
Protestors’ Violent Actions Spark Public Outcry
During the protests, several vehicles were set on fire, and shops were looted. According to authorities, at least 40 vehicles were burned, including both private and government-owned vehicles. Police reports also indicate that a university bus was hijacked by the protesters to aid their cause. Additionally, several instances of indiscriminate firing at police and civilians were reported.
The violence caused widespread panic, resulting in the temporary closure of multiple roads and public services, including the Metro Bus service in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. While some routes have now been restored, the Faizabad Interchange, which had been closed for six days, has also been reopened, allowing for the resumption of public and private transport.
Authorities Call for Accountability
The government has condemned the violent actions of the protesters, stating that hijacking buses, throwing petrol bombs, and engaging in violent confrontations is not part of a peaceful demonstration. Authorities have assured that the individuals involved in these activities will be held accountable under the law.
As of now, a search operation is underway to apprehend Saad Rizvi and other senior TLP leaders. The government has expressed its commitment to restoring order and maintaining peace, urging the public to remain calm as the situation unfolds.
The authorities have also confirmed that businesses, markets, and transport terminals, which had been affected by the violence, will gradually reopen to restore normalcy in the region.
