ISLAMABAD: Following the voilence sparked by blasphemy allegations in Jaranwala, Faisalabad, Interim Punjab Information Minister Amir Mir announced today that authorities have apprehended “dozens of people who disturbed peace” in the region.
The minister said, in a statement, that the violence in Jaranwala was done under a “well-thought-out conspiracy”.
Mir said, further adding that the situation in Faisalabad is fully under control now, “There was a plan to disturb the peace by inciting public sentiments. After the desecration of the Holy Quran, the angry protesters reacted strongly.”
The provincial information minister emphasized the ongoing rapid investigation into the distressing event involving the desecration of the holy book. He warned that immediate arrests would be made for anyone attempting vigilantism.
He highlighted the reinforcement of security measures around churches, noting the deployment of a substantial contingent of law enforcement officers. The affected areas now host over 6,000 policemen and Rangers personnel, he confirmed.
Furthermore, the minister conveyed that today’s occurrences resulted in neither injuries nor loss of life.
Mir continued by stating that, as per the directives of caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the Punjab chief secretary and Inspector General of Punjab Police have arrived in Jaranwala.
Caretaker Government Pledges To Pursue Action Against Perpetrators Of Vandalism At Jaranwala Churches
Meanwhile, Kakar said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, “I am gutted by the visuals coming out of Jaranwala, Faisalabad. Stern action would be taken against those who violate law and target minorities.”
The interim PM also stated that all law enforcement agencies have asked to “apprehend culprits and bring them to justice”.
“Rest assured that the government of Pakistan stands with our citizenry on equal basis,” he further added.
Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also criticized the incident by saying: “What is happening in Jaranwala is sad and disturbing.”
