May 9 events deplorable and condemnable: COAS

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Asim Munir said on Thursday that the events of May 9 were "very sad and condemnable" while addressing an event held in honour of the country's martyrs in Islamabad.

Gen Munir visited Police Lines Islamabad on ‘Youm-e-Takreem Shuhada-e-Pakistan’ [Pakistan Martyrs Day].

Upon arrival, he was received by Inspector General of Police Islamabad Dr Akbar Nasir Khan.

The army chief stressed that "the nation will neither forgive nor forget those who desecrated the memorials of martyrs and undermined their dignity", as the families of martyrs from the police and military attended the event.

Reiterating his earlier stance on the matter, the COAS said that "such behaviour will not be tolerated."

"Nothing can nullify the sacrifices of the martyrs that were blessed with eternal life by Allah Almighty," he added.

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"Pakistan Army, police and law enforcement agencies are the symbols of the state and have never hesitated to make any sacrifice for the dignity of the country.

"I want to convey this message to the heirs of the martyrs of all law enforcement agencies that today the people of Pakistan and the Pakistan Army stand and will continue to stand with them," he added.

Previously as well, Gen Munir had expressed profound sadness over the recent spate of attacks on military installations, memorials, and sanctuaries of martyrs, denouncing them as “intolerable”.

“Firm action will be taken against those who are responsible for such acts, as the army is committed to safeguarding national security,” Gen Asim said while addressing an award distribution ceremony held at the GHQ, aimed to recognise unwavering bravery and outstanding services of martyrs and ghazis to the nation.

Violent protests were held across the country following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan on May 9. Since then, thousands of protesters have been rounded up to be tried under military courts.