Foreign Food Chains
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari on Sunday stated that the recent wave of attacks on international fast-food chains across Pakistan was not random but carried out under an organised and premeditated plan.
Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, she strongly condemned the violence, highlighting the economic and social damage caused by the incidents.
She expressed concern over the destruction of public and private property, emphasizing that such acts were harming the nation more than helping any cause. “These food chains provide employment to around 25,000 Pakistanis,” Bokhari noted. “Even the individual who lost his life in one of these attacks was a Pakistani citizen.”
She further stated that the attacks, particularly in Punjab, were being executed as part of a larger, deliberate effort to disrupt peace and stability. “This is not spontaneous. Attacks are taking place in Punjab under an organised plan,” she said, warning that the government would not allow anyone to disturb the law and order situation in the province.
According to the minister, law enforcement agencies have already taken action, arresting 149 suspects involved in the incidents. She described the group responsible as “a violent group” working against the progress and development of Punjab.
Echoing similar sentiments, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry also condemned the attacks during a separate press conference in Faisalabad. He reassured the public that the government was fully aware of its responsibilities and committed to protecting investments and investors within the country.
Talal revealed that nearly 20 attacks had been recorded on foreign food chains across various cities in recent days.
He stated that many of those arrested expressed remorse for their actions, with some even seeking forgiveness. “Those arrested are ashamed of what they did and have apologised,” he said.
He further clarified that no political party had endorsed or taken responsibility for the violence, with all parties distancing themselves from the actions of the attackers. The government has vowed to take strict action against those involved and ensure such incidents are not repeated in the future.
