The Murree Expressway remained completely blocked on both sides for over an hour on Sunday, resulting in long queues of cars and causing difficulties for travellers and tourists.
Protesters had placed the body of one Razeem—who was shot dead in a melee caused by two groups fighting over a land dispute at Musyari—on the road and blocked the expressway on both sides to demand swift justice from the police.
The victim was reportedly shot after the tussle between the two groups grew intense and the opposing group opened fire, killing Razeem.
The relatives of the deceased then placing his body on Murree Expressway and refused to let any vehicles on the road pass, chanting slogans and demanding the immediate arrest of the accused.
The demonstrations caused a big traffic jam on the important road that is almost always a busy thoroughfare on weekends, making countless passengers suffer for a long time.
A police spokesperson said that as soon as the Murree police station received reports of the firing incident and the subsequent protest, the SHO, along with a heavy contingent, arrived at the spot and assured the deceased’s family that they would be given justice. They vowed that a case would be registered against the accused and severe punishment for the culprit will be ensured.
Following successful negotiations between police and the protesters, the Murree Expressway was reopened for traffic.
The spokesperson further said that as soon as a case was registered on Sunday, the police apprehended and arrested prime suspect Idrees during the preliminary investigation.
Meanwhile, raiding teams have been formed to arrest other suspects at the earliest.
Saddar Division Superintendent of Police Kamran Amir has said that the police would investigate the murder from all angles, collect solid evidence and challan all those involved in the murder.
He insisted Rawalpindi police adhere to a policy of merit and transparency, which will be ensured in every case.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 30th, 2021.
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