PTI Ends Islamabad Protest Amid Violent Clashes; Over 400 Arrested as Police Crackdown Intensifies

Islamabad:Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced the end of its protest in Islamabad, declaring the cessation of their peaceful demonstration in response to government actions. A spokesperson for PTI stated that, as per the party’s leadership, the decision to halt the protest was taken under the current circumstances. The spokesperson added that the party would decide on its future course of action under the guidance of PTI founder Imran Khan.

“Today, a brutal show of force was displayed against our peaceful protesters in Islamabad,” the spokesperson said. “We have received details of eight martyrs, and our workers were shot at directly. We strongly condemn the killings and the operation against our workers.”

**Police Crackdown: Over 400 Arrested, Weapons Seized**

On the other hand, a major police operation was carried out across Islamabad to quell the unrest, leading to the arrest of more than 400 individuals allegedly involved in violent protests. According to a police spokesperson, the Rawalpindi police conducted a grand operation in the area near the 26 No. Chowki, arresting over 400 suspected troublemakers. Nationwide, nearly 800 individuals have been detained in connection with the protests.

The police also reported the seizure of a large number of weapons, including firearms, wireless devices, slingshots, and ball bearings from the arrested suspects. The authorities confirmed that the arrested individuals were involved in attacking police personnel, damaging public property, and engaging in arson.

**Fleeing PTI Leaders: Ali Amin Gandapur and Bushra Bibi Escape**

Meanwhile, as the crackdown continued, PTI leaders Ali Amin Gandapur and Bushra Bibi managed to flee the scene. According to sources, the two leaders were initially present near Kulsoom Plaza in the Blue Area, accompanied by a small number of PTI supporters. As the operation began, both Gandapur and Bushra Bibi reportedly escaped in the same vehicle, heading towards D-Chowk. While the exact direction of their escape remains unclear, reports suggest they were last seen heading towards Jinnah Avenue.

Police sources indicated that while the authorities were able to stop Gandapur’s security convoy, they continued to chase the vehicle carrying Gandapur and Bushra Bibi. It is believed that their vehicle was heading towards the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House.

**Roadblocks and Escalating Tensions: Police and Rangers Close in**

Following the leadership’s escape, PTI workers scattered, abandoning their vehicles and fleeing towards residential areas of Islamabad. In a bid to prevent the protesters from escaping the city, security forces set up roadblocks, including the closure of the Attock Bridge – a key route connecting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. Containers were re-positioned to block roads, and heavy police deployments were made along the bridge and nearby areas.

Earlier, Rangers had cleared D-Chowk, pushing back protesters and removing barriers. Police and Rangers were also able to vacate Jinnah Avenue from PTI demonstrators, forcing them back towards the outskirts of the city.

Throughout the day, PTI workers clashed with law enforcement in the Red Zone, removing and overturning containers, and using slingshots and stones to attack police officers. The violence led to heavy casualties, with at least four police and Rangers personnel confirmed dead, and over 100 others injured in the skirmishes.

**Nationwide Damage and Economic Impact**

The violence and clashes have sparked widespread condemnation, with PTI alleging that the government was using excessive force against peaceful protesters. However, the authorities maintain that the operations were necessary to restore order and prevent further escalation. The political and economic ramifications of the ongoing unrest are expected to be significant, as the protests have caused major disruptions in the capital.

The incident marks another chapter in the ongoing political turmoil surrounding PTI, as both the party and the government prepare for the next phase of their respective strategies.