Islamabad (Web Desk): Police and Rangers have successfully cleared Islamabad's Blue Area following a large-scale crackdown on protesters that took place on Tuesday.
According to reports, over 450 people were detained in the operation, with most arrests involving Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters accused of clashing with security forces during the demonstrations. However, the leadership of PTI, including key figures, remained elusive.
As per the sources, a larger operation is underway, with plans to arrest more protesters in the coming hours.
Special teams have been assigned to focus on apprehending prominent PTI leaders, including Bushra Bibi, wife of PTI founder Imran Khan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Special units from Islamabad Police, Punjab Police, and Rangers, are focusing on targeting PTI's leadership as part of a coordinated security effort.
Addressing a late night press conference, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed his gratitude to the Pakistan Army, police, and Rangers for their commitment and sacrifices in managing the protest.
He confirmed that Bushra Bibi and Gandapur were currently evading capture.
Meanwhile, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar condemned the attack on media offices by PTI supporters, adding that many protesters had fled the scene, leaving behind personal belongings like vehicles, shoes, and clothing.
The protests, organized by PTI to demand the release of their leader, Imran Khan, were met with forceful resistance from law enforcement, including the use of tear gas to disperse the crowds. PTI convoys have been traveling across the country since Sunday, intensifying the political unrest.
The situation remains volatile, with authorities intensifying their efforts to detain key PTI figures as the standoff continues to unfold.