Clashes erupt over arrest of ‘drug peddler’

A violent protest erupted following the arrest of a suspected drug dealer, resulting in stone-pelting, physical altercations and injuries to twelve police personnel.

The unrest began when relatives of the arrested suspect, Ghulam Qadir, blocked the Tandlianwala road and clashed with police officers.

The confrontation led to significant chaos, with government vehicles damaged and three police station heads among the injured.

The Central Police Officer (CPO) of Faisalabad intervened and successfully negotiated with the protestors, leading to a temporary resolution.

As part of the agreement, three police employees, including the checkpoint in-charge, were suspended. The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations was appointed as the inquiry officer to investigate the incident and identify those responsible for the violence against the police.

According to sources, the incident began when Tauseef-ur-Rehman, the in-charge of the Rahm-e-Shah checkpost at Saddar Tandlianwala Police Station, led a raid in Chak 396 GB, resulting in the arrest of Ghulam Qadir.

The arrest incited relatives of Qadir to protest, accusing the police of harassment and unjustified arrests.