PTI Convoy Enters Islamabad, Clashes Between Protesters and Police

Islamabad: Following the call of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, the party’s convoys have entered Islamabad, crossing barricades and engaging in intense confrontations with law enforcement agencies.
The PTI supporters gathered in large numbers at the 26 Chowk, chanting slogans, while Islamabad police officers were seen retreating from the scene. However, Rangers were deployed and took positions to control the situation. The police stationed at the Tehri Hill were attacked, and PTI workers reportedly seized shells and firearms from them. Ali Amin Gandapur intervened to rescue Punjab police personnel during the scuffle.
Earlier, the convoy was heavily shelled by police at the Ghazi Brotha Bridge. The Hazarah Interchange saw the convoy led by Umar Ayub forcefully pushing back the Punjab police. Once joined by the main convoy, the PTI group proceeded towards Islamabad.
The situation escalated further as intense stone-throwing and skirmishes broke out along the Hazara Motorway, leaving several police officers injured. Two officers were critically wounded and transferred to a hospital.
Use of Firearms During Clashes
During the confrontations between PTI supporters and police, there were reports of gunfire, allegedly coming from the protesters. Among the injured police personnel, two sustained gunshot wounds. A police officer from Sargodha, Sami Ullah, was seriously injured with a bullet wound to his leg, while another officer from Faisalabad was shot in the neck and later transferred to Rawalpindi District Headquarters Hospital.
Protesters’ Strategic Moves and Clashes in Different Regions
Convoys from Peshawar and Hazara joined forces, and the protesters advanced toward Islamabad. However, they faced resistance at several key locations, including the Harkla Interchange and the Dera Ismail Khan region. Violent clashes broke out with police in these areas, with protesters reportedly setting fire to two private vehicles on the Hazara Motorway. At the same time, authorities began to arrest PTI workers disguised as journalists who were allegedly providing real-time updates to PTI leadership on the ground.
Sub Jail Declared for CIA Building
The Islamabad administration declared the CIA building in I-9 a “sub-jail” in accordance with legal procedures. This move comes amid mounting tensions and increasing arrests of PTI activists in Islamabad and surrounding areas.
Government’s Security Measures
The federal government has been on high alert, with over 30,000 police officers and personnel from the Frontier Constabulary (FC) deployed to manage the situation. Roads leading to Islamabad, including major highways and motorways, have been blocked, and strict measures have been imposed to prevent unauthorized gatherings.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that the government would enforce court orders and take stern action against any disruptions to public order. Police and security forces are prepared for any situation, and the government has assured the protection of citizens’ safety.
Threats and Security Alerts
Meanwhile, the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) issued a terror alert, warning of potential attacks by the “Khawarij” militant group targeting the PTI protest. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa home department also issued warnings of possible suicide attacks during the protest.
Continued Clashes and Arrests
In response to growing unrest, police have made several arrests, including prominent PTI figures like Amir Dogar and Zain Qureshi. Over 75 PTI workers were detained in Faisalabad, and authorities have also seized 20 vehicles associated with the protests.
Conclusion
The PTI’s mass protests have triggered widespread unrest, with violent clashes erupting across various regions. The government has vowed to maintain order, and with a large contingent of security forces in place, it is prepared for further confrontations as the situation continues to unfold.