PTI protests cost police over Rs1.5 billion

LAHORE:

The November protests organised by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have left Punjab police facing financial and operational strain, with incurred expenses and damages exceeding Rs1.5 billion.

According to police sources, 27,000 personnel were deployed across the province to maintain order, including 2,000 officers sent to assist Islamabad police. During clashes, 131 police personnel were injured, and one officer was martyred. Protesters also abducted 20 officers, all of whom were later rescued.

The operation's expenses included Rs1 billion spent on fuel, food, and accommodation for deployed personnel.

The police also requested an additional Rs500 million in supplementary funds from the government to sustain operations.

To disperse demonstrators, law enforcement extensively used tear gas, deploying 60,000 shells at a cost of Rs200 million.

An emergency procurement of additional shells worth Rs400 million was also made to handle the escalating situation.

The protests caused extensive damage to police property.

Dozens of vehicles were burned or rendered inoperable, while anti-riot gear, helmets, and weapons worth millions were either stolen or destroyed.

Punjab police have urged the government to reimburse these expenses.