ISLAMABAD: Law enforcement agencies dispersed violent protesters in Muridke on Monday, resulting in casualties on both sides after street protests by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) activists.
According to law enforcement agency sources, authorities launched an operation to break up the unruly protest but faced resistance from the TLP members. The protesters pelted policemen with stones, attacked officers with spiked batons, and hurled petrol bombs.
Authorities said the situation worsened quickly when the unruly protesters randomly opened fire on law enforcement officials and civilians in the area.
Security forces were compelled to take limited defensive action to protect themselves and restore order.
The confrontation resulted in significant casualties before the protest was brought under control. One Punjab police Station House Officer (SHO) was martyred, 48 were injured, and 17 suffered gunshot wounds.
Authorities report that three TLP protesters were killed in the clashes, along with one bystander, while eight civilians were injured.
The unruly protesters also set fire to 40 government and private vehicles before they were dispersed.
After the dispersal, law enforcement agencies arrested several people involved in the violence. A search operation is ongoing as authorities seek to apprehend more suspects and keep the area secure.
