As political tension continues to rise following the dramatic arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities have also called in army troops to control the situation on the ground following the Punjab government’s stance. .
The Home Ministry approved the Punjab government’s request for assistance by approving ten companies of the army, saying: “The army will work closely with the district administration to restore law and order and peace”.
The order issued by the Federal Ministry of Home Affairs stated: “In accordance with the request made by the Home Department, Government of Punjab vide their letter No. SO(IS-II)3-15/2023 (Security) (1) dated May 9, 2023, in the exercise of the powers conferred on the Federal Government under Article 245 of the Constitution and Section 4(3)(ii) of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, (to perform such functions as are specified in the said Act) to grant), is pleased to permit. Deploying Pakistan Army troops/assets to maintain the law and order situation in the province of Punjab with the help of Civil Power.”
It added that the exact number of troops/assets, date of deployment and area will be determined by the provincial government in consultation with MODTE, GHQ.
“The date of de-requisition of the said deployment will be decided later after mutual consultation between the two stakeholders,” the notification said.
945 arrested for hooliganism
In a separate statement, Punjab Police said action has been taken against those who attack government property, police force and law enforcement agencies in the province.
“The miscreants involved in violent acts, vandalism, damage to public and private property have been arrested across the province,” the notification said, adding that they had killed more than 130 police officers during the violent acts. and had “severely injured” law enforcement officials.
The spokesperson then shared: “Police teams have arrested 945 law breakers and miscreants from across the province.”
The spokesperson of Punjab Police says that more than 25 vehicles of police and government agencies were destroyed and burnt.
He said that the protesters attacked more than 14 government buildings, looted and severely damaged government property.
Furthermore, Punjab Inspector General (IG) Dr. Usman Anwar said that strict legal action is being taken against those who challenge the state’s writ and law.
He affirmed that those who injure citizens, police officers and personnel and damage property “will be brought to justice”.
