PM Shehbaz orders swift action against Islamabad rioters

Premier stressed importance of ensuring that only rioters are apprehended, and innocent individuals are not detained

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for swift action against those involved in recent riots in Islamabad, warning that anyone attempting to destabilise the country’s economy will face strict measures.

In a high-level meeting on security, attended by senior government officials including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Sharif emphasised that no innocent civilians should be arrested during the crackdown.

“We will not allow anyone to create chaos and sabotage our rapidly stabilising economy,” Sharif said, addressing the meeting. “Immediate actions should be taken against those responsible for the recent violence, vandalism, and damage to both public and private properties in Islamabad.”

He also directed that efforts to identify and gather concrete evidence against the perpetrators be accelerated, with a task force dedicated to addressing the unrest.

Sharif stressed the importance of ensuring that only the rioters are apprehended, and innocent individuals are not detained. He further instructed that all necessary resources be allocated to the task force tasked with investigating and taking action against those behind the disturbances.

In addition, the Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Law to integrate the Federal Prosecution Service under its purview and ordered the construction of Islamabad’s new jail to be expedited, with immediate release of funds to speed up the process.

The meeting also heard updates on the expansion of the Safe City initiative, with plans to increase surveillance camera coverage in the capital. Authorities informed Sharif that the new Islamabad jail is expected to be completed by March next year.