Islamabad (Ghag Report):
Islamabad witnessed a major crackdown late Tuesday night as security forces launched a planned operation against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers gathered at D-Chowk. While federal ministers confirmed the arrests of 500 to 550 protesters, they refrained from disclosing any information about injuries sustained during the operation.
In contrast, PTI’s official social media accounts and party leaders alleged that indiscriminate firing and excessive use of tear gas by security forces resulted in multiple casualties and injuries. Videos posted by PTI showed fleeing protesters, tear gas clouds, and sounds of intense firing in the background. However, independent verification of these claims remains unavailable, and authorities have yet to comment on these allegations.
According to an Islamabad police spokesperson, the operation began at 11 PM after thorough planning. Security personnel surrounded the protesters from all sides before initiating the crackdown. A participating officer, Usman Ahmed, stated that nearby markets were closed, and streetlights were turned off before the operation commenced.
The operation concluded within 2 to 2.5 hours, resulting in over 500 arrests from D-Chowk and its surroundings. The police claim protesters set several vehicles on fire, including a container carrying Bushra Bibi and Ali Amin Gandapur.
Footage from local media and PTI’s social platforms showed dozens of damaged vehicles on Islamabad’s Jinnah Avenue, with shattered windows and signs of vandalism.
The detained individuals have been placed in various Islamabad police stations and transferred to the CIA building, which has been declared a sub-jail. Police officials confirmed that detainees will be presented in court in phases to seek physical remand.
The aftermath of the operation continues to spark political and public debate, with allegations of heavy-handedness against the security forces and calls for an independent inquiry into the events.