Rana Sanaullah Says No Casualties in Islamabad Operation, Over 500 Arrested; Warns of Further Action if PTI Returns to Red Zone

Islamabad:Prime Minister’s Advisor on Interior Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, addressed the ongoing crackdown on PTI protesters in Islamabad, stating that no casualties were reported during the operation. However, he confirmed that over 500 individuals had been arrested, and warned of further legal actions against those responsible for the unrest.
Speaking to *Geo News*, Rana Sanaullah elaborated on the government’s response to the protests. “We have arrested between 500 to 550 people involved in the unrest,” he said. “The individuals who lost their lives during the protests will be named in the relevant FIRs, and legal action will also be taken against those who damaged property and caused disruptions.”
He further accused the protesters of being armed and intent on creating chaos. “Around 15,000 to 20,000 people came from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including some Afghan nationals. These individuals were armed and had plans to loot and cause further destruction,” Rana Sanaullah stated.
The operation, which took place during the night, was planned to avoid more severe consequences, according to the interior minister. “We decided to conduct the operation during the night to minimize the risk of casualties. Our aim was not to cause bloodshed, but to restore law and order,” he explained.
**Status of Bushra Bibi and Ali Amin Gandapur**
When asked about the whereabouts of PTI leaders Bushra Bibi and Ali Amin Gandapur, Rana Sanaullah said that while he did not know their exact location, he was aware that both had managed to flee during the operation. “They successfully escaped during the operation,” he confirmed.
Despite claims from PTI sources suggesting that Bushra Bibi remained in Islamabad, government officials have maintained that both she and Gandapur were able to leave the capital amid the crackdown.
**Government’s Warning for Future Protests**
Rana Sanaullah also warned that any attempt by PTI to gather again in the Red Zone would lead to another operation. “If PTI tries to gather again in the Red Zone, we will take further action. There are plenty of other places outside the Red Zone where they can express their protests legally,” he said, signaling that the government would not tolerate any more disruptions in the highly sensitive area.
The government’s firm stance comes as the situation in Islamabad remains tense, with heightened security and continuing efforts to prevent further unrest.