A major crackdown is underway in Punjab against a religious group, with police arresting more than 3,400 individuals involved in recent violent protests. According to officials, the arrests are being made in connection with incidents of vandalism, arson, and attacks on law enforcement during the demonstrations.
Police confirmed that 340 people were arrested in Lahore, 217 in Sheikhupura, and 210 in Mandi Bahauddin, while hundreds of others were detained in different cities. A total of 76 cases have been registered in police stations across Punjab, with 39 of them filed in Lahore alone.
Authorities said that at least 250 police personnel were injured in the clashes with protesters. The detainees have been categorized into three different groups, and identification of those involved is being carried out through video footage.
The violence included incidents of stone-pelting, the use of petrol bombs, and attempts to snatch weapons from security forces. The intensity of the protests earlier this week led police to tighten security measures and expand their operations.
The unrest escalated in several cities, particularly Lahore and Muridke, resulting in the deaths of at least five people, including both police personnel and members of the religious group.
In Muridke, negotiations were held between the police and protesters, but after stone-pelting and gunfire from the demonstrators, police responded with force. Several vehicles and shops were set on fire, and multiple individuals were detained. However, the group’s leader managed to escape from the scene.
