As the PTI procession made its way toward Islamabad, clashes intensified between protesters and police, resulting in significant casualties.
Violence erupts during PTI protest convoy, police constable martyred, dozens injured. A tragic turn of events unfolded during the ongoing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest convoys as violence escalated, leading to the martyrdom of Police Constable Mubashir and injuring dozens of law enforcement officers.
The violence occurred as PTI protesters, led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, continued their journey to Islamabad on Monday after workers cleared obstacles near Katti Pahari in Attock.
The convoy, which included Imran Khan‘s wife Bushra Bibi and PTI leader Omar Ayub, had stayed briefly overnight near the Hazara Rest Area before proceeding. Meanwhile, another convoy led by Ali Amin Gandapur’s brother, Omar Amin, remained at the Hakla Interchange for several hours.
Violent Clashes & Casualties
As the PTI procession made its way toward Islamabad, clashes intensified between protesters and police, resulting in significant casualties. Police Constable Mubashir, 46, tragically succumbed to a head injury sustained during a violent altercation with miscreants at the Hakla Interchange. Constable Mubashir, a resident of Muzaffargarh, leaves behind a wife and three children. His martyrdom has deeply affected the police force and the community.
In addition to Constable Mubashir’s death, at least 70 police personnel were injured in the violence. The injured officers suffered various wounds, primarily to their heads, arms, and legs. Law enforcement agencies are working to identify the suspects through CCTV footage.
Shootings in Attock & Ghazi Barotha Bridge Incident
The situation worsened in Attock, where two police officers were critically injured in a shooting incident near Katti Pahari. Constable Wajid, from Faisalabad, was shot in the neck and remains in critical condition, while Constable Samiullah, from Sargodha, sustained a gunshot wound to his leg. Both officers were on special duty in the region.
Furthermore, 23 police personnel were injured in a violent clash with PTI workers at Ghazi Barotha Bridge. The altercation occurred when PTI supporters, reportedly accompanying Chief Minister Gandapur, attempted to cross the bridge despite security restrictions. Additional police reinforcements were deployed to manage the situation and restore order.
Interior Minister of Pakistan Mohsin Naqvi paid tribute to Constable Mubashir, expressing condolences to his family. He condemned the violence, vowing that those responsible for the attacks would be held accountable.
Meanwhile, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari raised concerns over the escalation of violence during the protest, condemning the loss of life and injuries. She criticized PTI leadership for inciting violence and accused them of exploiting religion for political purposes. “Today, a young man was martyred due to the protest, and five others are in critical condition. Seventy officials were seriously injured, and many were taken hostage by the protesters,” Bokhari stated.
Authorities are using CCTV footage to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violent incidents. The tragic loss of life and injuries has cast a shadow over the protest, as both the government and police pledge to ensure justice for the victims. The situation remains tense, with additional measures in place to control the unrest and restore peace.