PTI supporters clash with police in Quetta, injuring five officers

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters attempted to reach a hockey ground for a planned rally despite being denied permission by local authorities in Quetta, resulting in clashes that left five police officers injured on Friday.

According to Express News, PTI had announced plans to hold a rally on Saturday at Quetta’s hockey ground, but district authorities denied the request, citing security concerns.

In response, local administration officials sealed all access routes leading to the ground, placing containers to block key roads, including Edhi Chowk, Anscomb Road, and the Railway Station area. Heavy police deployment surrounded the rally site, which was completely cordoned off.

However, PTI supporters gathered at the scheduled time, breaking through barricades and attempting to reach the rally location. In response, police used tear gas to disperse the advancing crowds, sparking a confrontation that quickly escalated.

PTI supporters reportedly threw stones at police, who responded with additional tear gas shells in efforts to regain control. The clashes continued for nearly three hours.

Police officials reported that PTI supporters tried to ram a vehicle into police personnel, injuring five officers, including a DSP. Despite the intense standoff, the rally did not proceed as planned, and PTI supporters eventually dispersed.

The incident highlights rising political tensions in the country as authorities and political groups continue to clash over public gatherings and demonstrations.