PTI Convoys Enter Islamabad Amid Violent Clashes with Police
Convoys led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Opposition Leader Omar Ayub entered Islamabad, responding to a call from PTI founder Imran Khan. The processions, starting from the Hazara Interchange, were heading towards D-Chowk despite encountering significant police resistance at Ghazi Brotha Bridge, where intense shelling was reported.
Omar Ayub’s convoy managed to push back Punjab Police forces at the Hazara Interchange, while Gandapur, leading the Hazara Division convoy, played a key role in breaching police barricades. Vehicles stretched over two kilometers as the convoy advanced, with PTI supporters forcing police to retreat during clashes on the Hazara Motorway. Reports of violent stone-pelting led to injuries among law enforcement, including two officers hospitalized with severe wounds.
Casualties Reported
A police constable, Mubashir, succumbed to head injuries allegedly caused by PTI protesters near Hakla, bringing the death toll to one. Over 70 officers sustained injuries in the confrontations.
PTI’s Demands and Final Call
PTI’s protest aims to achieve four key demands: the release of political prisoners, including Imran Khan, reversal of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, restoration of democracy, and addressing claims of electoral mandate theft. Imran Khan urged supporters to remain in Islamabad until these demands are met, converting rallies into a sit-in if necessary.
Government Response and Crackdown
The PML-N-led government, supported by a recent Islamabad High Court (IHC) order, vowed to prevent the protesters from entering the capital. Containers were deployed to block key routes, and internet services were suspended in several areas to restrict communication. Section 144 was imposed in Islamabad and Punjab, banning public gatherings.
Despite these measures, PTI convoys breached barricades and faced police shelling at various locations, including Attock Bridge and Ghazi Brotha canal. In Swabi, Gandapur rallied supporters to press forward, calling it a “battle ahead.” Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife, also urged participants to push ahead without retreating until Khan’s release.
Nationwide Mobilization and Arrests
While Khyber Pakhtunkhwa saw the largest turnout, rallies also originated from Punjab, Sindh, and Baluchistan. Several PTI leaders, including National Assembly Chief Whip Amir Dogar and Zain Qureshi, were reportedly arrested in Punjab, where around 600 arrests were made for violating Section 144.
Interior Ministry’s Stance
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reviewed security arrangements and emphasized strict measures to maintain public order. He assured citizens of protection against any disruptions while warning that legal action would be taken against “miscreants.”
The standoff remains unresolved, with both sides determined to achieve their objectives.
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