PM Shehbaz forms task force to investigate Islamabad violence

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the formation of a dedicated task force on Friday to identify and take strict action against individuals involved in the violence during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in Islamabad earlier this week. 

The task force will be chaired by Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi and includes key members such as Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and representatives from the security forces.

The violence erupted after more than 10,000 PTI protesters breached a public gathering ban and locked down the city to clash with security forces. Riot police responded with tear gas as protesters neared the heavily barricaded D-Chowk. 

Following intense clashes, PTI leadership called off their planned sit-in, but the turmoil has heightened political and security tensions across the capital.

In response to the unrest, PM Shehbaz highlighted the need for a dedicated force to address future protests more effectively. The task force is expected to take swift action against those responsible for the violence and plan for future anti-riot measures. 

As part of the initiative, the government will also establish a Federal Riot-Control Force, equipped with advanced tools and training based on international standards.

Additionally, the prime minister announced the creation of a Federal Forensic Lab, which will utilise modern technologies to investigate and collect evidence from riots and unrest.

PM Shehbaz underscored that the Islamabad Safe City project would be modernised, and the federal prosecution service would be reinforced to ensure swift justice.

During the meeting, the PM also addressed concerns about the growing instability, calling the actions of the protesters “nefarious attempts” to disrupt the country’s development. 

He reiterated that Pakistan was moving towards stability and progress, asserting that “enemies of the country’s development would never succeed in their designs.” 

The prime minister also reassured the nation that the overwhelming majority of Pakistanis, including those in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), rejected the violence and chaos instigated by a small group of troublemakers.

He concluded by stressing the collective responsibility of all citizens to protect the country’s sovereignty and security, stressing that unity and vigilance were key to defeating the forces attempting to destabilize the nation.