The Punjab government has decided to form a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to investigate the attack on Lahore’s Corps Commander’s House, which occurred during a series of countrywide protests that followed the arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan. Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the formation of the JIT during a meeting to review the law and order situation in the province.
The JIT will investigate “upsetting incidents of vandalism and arson at the Jinnah House and military and civil installations,” said Naqvi. The attack on the Corps Commander’s House in Cantonment has been a major cause of concern, and the JIT will submit a comprehensive report to the government after conducting a thorough investigation.
The protests were triggered by Imran Khan’s arrest on May 9 from the Islamabad High Court premises. The protests turned violent, with military installations and government offices being set on fire in Peshawar. On May 11, the Supreme Court declared Imran Khan’s arrest “invalid and unlawful,” and the Islamabad High Court granted him bail the following day.
Leaked audio clips allegedly involving PTI leaders suggested that the party leadership was instigating its workers to attack the Corps Commander’s house. PTI leader Dr Yasmin Rashid, who is currently detained by the Islamabad police, had earlier claimed that the audio clip was “doctored” as she had never instructed anyone to torch the house.
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Naqvi ordered the speeding up of legal action against the miscreants behind the incidents and the geo-fencing of all incidents of vandalism. “All cases against the miscreants will be taken up in the anti-terrorism court,” he said. He further directed the public prosecution department to ensure immediate trial in all cases and vowed not to spare any sinner or arrest anyone innocent.
During the meeting, Naqvi emphasized that the government had a “zero-tolerance policy” towards miscreants and assured the public of their safety and security. He also ordered schools in the province to be reopened on May 15, stating that the situation was getting better.
Provincial Information Minister Amir Mir, Lahore Capital City Police Officer, Counter Terrorism Department Additional Inspector General, Secretary of Law, Punjab Safe Cities Authority Managing Director, and Lahore Deputy Commissioner were present during the meeting. The entire force is alerted to thwart the nefarious aims of the evil elements, Naqvi vowed.
