Afghan citizens without NOC won't be allowed in Islamabad from 2025: Mohsin Naqvi

"After December 31, anyone from Afghanistan without an NOC will be required to leave Islamabad," interior minster says

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced that from December 31, no Afghan nationals will be allowed to stay in Islamabad without a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

Speaking to the media during a visit to the ongoing construction of an underpass at F-8, Naqvi reaffirmed the government’s stance on regulating foreign nationals in the capital.

"After December 31, anyone from Afghanistan without an NOC will be required to leave Islamabad," Naqvi said, highlighting the government's increased vigilance over foreign residents in the city.

Addressing the aftermath of the recent protests, Naqqvi dismissed claims about numerous fatalities circulating on social media .

“There is a lot of noise about bodies in hospitals, but no one is giving specifics. I asked the protesters to provide the name of even one person who died. Their embarrassment is evident as they struggle to name anyone," he said.

The Interior Minister emphasised that a comprehensive report on the protests would soon be submitted to the High Court.

Meanwhile, Islamabad appears to be returning to normal after the chaos caused by the protests. "The city is on track, with rapid progress on the F-9 road and underpass," Naqvi added.

Following the visit, the Minister and Punjab Rangers DG, Major General Mohammad Atif bin Akram, toured PIMS Hospital to meet with security personnel injured during the protests.

The officials visited the injured officers from Rangers, FC, and the police, praising their bravery.

"You are the heroes of the nation," Naqvi said, commending their courage in thwarting the violent protests. "We are proud of you for maintaining patience and composure in the face of adversity."

The Minister also ensured that the injured personnel would receive the best possible medical treatment.

Over 900 PTI workers arrested in three days: IG Islamabad

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, announced on Wednesday that a total of 954 protesters have been arrested over the past three days, with 610 of those arrests occurring just on Tuesday.

The arrests were part of the law enforcement response to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests in the capital.

Speaking at a press conference alongside the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, IGP Rizvi reported the seizure of more than 200 vehicles and 39 different types of weapons, including Kalashnikovs, 12-bore guns, and other firearms, from protesters during the demonstration.

"We have video evidence showing armed protesters advancing with masks on their faces," Rizvi stated, highlighting the seriousness of the unrest.

Additionally, the IGP revealed that out of 71 individuals reported as injured during the protests, 52 were law enforcement personnel. He further explained that protesters had employed large fans to blow tear gas fumes back towards security forces, intensifying the confrontation.

He emphasised that all roads leading to and from Islamabad are open, and routine activities are continuing without disruption. "No one will be allowed to challenge the state's authority," he asserted.

While containers have been removed, patrolling and security checks will continue at key locations. "Outsiders will not be allowed to stay in Islamabad without security clearance," Muhammad Ali Randhawa reiterated.

He also noted that protesters attacked journalists, prompting authorities to move the media from the area. "Fuel pumps were temporarily shut down due to concerns that they might be set on fire."

IG Ali Nasir highlighted that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, violence, attacks on police, and damage to property cross the line into terrorism.

"When protesters use firearms, attack security personnel, and confine citizens to their homes, it ceases to be a protest and becomes an act of terrorism, against which we have every right to take action."

He added that attacks on security forces will not be tolerated under the guise of protests. "Security personnel were assaulted, some were martyred, and others injured. A variety of guns, including Kalashnikovs and pistols, were used, and live ammunition was fired."

IG Ali Nasir also disclosed that the violence was orchestrated with state-level resources from one province. "Tear gas shells were manufactured, large fans were built to blow smoke towards security personnel, and protesters wore masks and carried various weapons. We have seized 39 firearms, including Kalashnikovs and pistols."

He further revealed that 71 security personnel were injured, with 52 injured in a single day, including 26 Rangers. "Whenever protesters are apprehended, they resort to using weapons," he concluded.