A policeman was killed and dozens were injured in clashes with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf protesters in Hakla on Monday, as former prime minister Imran Khan’s supporters marched to Islamabad for his release.
“We have conveyed to everyone that those who had given this call and those who asked people to come out will be responsible. We will not spare anyone,” Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi told reporters after attending the funeral prayers of the martyred policeman.
The deceased was identified as Punjab Police Constable Mubashir. He had sustained head injuries from the violent attacks. The 46-year-old policeman hailed from Muzaffargarh and is survived by two daughters and a son.
A Punjab Police spokesperson said that miscreants launched an assault on the police personnel under the guise of the protest. Mubashir was brought to the hospital in critical condition, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Clashes were reported between supporters of the PTI and the police on highways. Footage showed Khan’s supporters wearing masks and using slingshots while others were seen using tear gas.
They started marching to Islamabad from different cities on Sunday for Khan’s release. The PTI founder is behind bars in cases related to graft.
“Efforts are under way to identify the attackers through CCTV footage and those responsible will be brought to justice,” the spokesperson said.
“At least 119 Punjab policemen are injured and four have fire arm injuries,” Punjab IGP Usman Anwar said while standing alongside the interior minister.
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He added that some of the personnel are critically injured having head injuries. Over 20 vehicles were damaged, Anwar said and added that 22,000 personnel were on duty in the federal capital.
“It is easy to respond in bullet for a bullet,” Naqvi said and added that they were aware of attacks. He claimed that protesters fired bullets.
Two Islamabad policemen were critically injured and dozens injured, he said and assured that the violent protesters would be held accountable under the law.
“Our deepest sympathies are with the family, and we will ensure that those responsible are brought before the law.”
