In response to the attacks on civil and military properties following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, the Punjab government decided on Saturday to establish a joint investigation team (JIT).
The team will investigate acts of vandalism and arson across the province, particularly targeting the Jinnah House and other significant sites, carried out by violent protesters demanding Khan’s release after his May 9 arrest.
Upon completing the investigation, the JIT will submit a detailed report to the provincial government to expedite identifying the perpetrators.
Following the arrest of the PTI chairman, violent protesters throughout the country demanded his release, attacking sensitive national institutions, buildings, and the Jinnah House (home of the Lahore corps commander), desecrating the martyrs’ monument, obstructing national broadcasts, blocking the Swat Motorway, burning Radio Pakistan, and targeting government officials, citizens, and even ambulances with violence.
During a meeting with his caretaker cabinet to review the province’s law and order situation, Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi ordered swift action against those involved in the violence.
“Geo-fencing will be conducted for all destroyed areas,” Naqvi stated.
The provincial chief minister further announced that all cases against the culprits will be tried in an anti-terrorism court.
“No wrongdoer will be spared, and no innocent will be accused,” he said.
Interim CM Naqvi emphasized that all troublemakers would be brought to justice with evidence, stating that those who attacked civil and military properties would face severe punishment under a zero-tolerance policy against offenders.
He added that Punjab’s law and order situation is improving, and the government is committed to ensuring the safety of people’s lives and property.
“The entire force is on alert to counter the malicious intentions of criminals,” he said, demonstrating the provincial administration’s resolve to confront violent elements.
The Punjab government extended Section 144 by four days across the region to ensure peace and safety for citizens in the province, according to a notification issued late Friday night.
“All types of assemblies, gatherings, sit-ins, rallies, processions, and protests are prohibited in the jurisdiction of Punjab province,” read the Punjab home department’s notification.
The provincial administration initially imposed Section 144 on May 9 due to the violence following the PTI chairman’s arrest in Islamabad.
