Islamabad, November 27, 2024-The Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad have announced that no foreigner will be allowed to stay illegally in the federal capital. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa and IGP Ali Nasir Rizvi addressed concerns over recent protests and alleged unlawful activities.
Chief Commissioner Randhawa highlighted that the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had explicitly prohibited protests in the city. However, he noted that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party defied these orders, challenging the state’s authority. He alleged that some protestors included foreign terrorists carrying illegal weapons. “We have obtained video evidence of foreigners entering the city through cameras installed at key entry points,” Randhawa stated.
He emphasized that the government had designated Sangjani as the authorized protest site. “Despite this, protestors brought unrest to other areas. Our law enforcement personnel are sacrificing their lives to protect citizens,” he added.
IGP Rizvi underscored the distinction between legitimate protests and acts of terrorism. “Bringing weapons to a protest turns it into an act of terror. If they come armed, they will face the consequences. We will not tolerate terrorism in the guise of protest,” Rizvi asserted.
The IGP expressed shock at the nature of the protests, where protestors allegedly fired directly at police officers. “While our personnel used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, the protestors responded with live ammunition,” he revealed.
Rizvi reported that 950 rioters had been arrested, and 71 security personnel were injured during the clashes. Seven terrorism cases have been registered against the offenders. “Those responsible for these actions, including the masterminds, will be apprehended soon. The state will not be held hostage by a few thousand individuals,” he declared.
The IGP also mentioned that police had gathered video evidence of over 3,000 vehicles involved in the protests and tracked their locations. “We are using this information to identify and prosecute those involved in illegal activities,” he concluded.
