Police officer wounded in PTI protest dies from injuries

A police officer has died following severe injuries sustained during violent clashes with protesters from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in Islamabad. Officer Hamid Shah, who was assaulted by demonstrators near the Chungi No. 26 area, passed away while receiving treatment at PIMS hospital, a local media outlet reported.

The Islamabad Police confirmed that Hamid Shah had served the force since 1988 and was just three months away from retirement. The officer was a resident of Abbottabad. His funeral will be held later today at Police Lines in the capital.

The protests, which have led to several violent confrontations between police and demonstrators, have rocked Islamabad for the past two days. These protests are part of a larger movement by PTI supporters, expressing dissent against the government. Authorities report that at least 31 Islamabad police officers and 75 from Punjab police have been injured in the unrest, with one officer's condition being critical.

In a statement, the Inspector General of the Punjab Police noted that direct gunfire was aimed at the police. He commended the police for their efforts in preventing any unpleasant incidents. He affirmed that the authorities would not allow any disruption of peace, assuring that Pakistan remains safe and will continue to do so.

Till midnight, the situation stayed volatile in the capital as the pitched battles between the two sides continued to take place as the roads remained closed and cellular networks shut for over 48 hours. Late night, it was reported that police and other law enforcers had managed to disperse protesters from near D-Chowk and surrounding area