Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed a strong response to recent violent protests in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, stating that those responsible will face the full force of the law. He added that the protests, which occurred during the official visit of the Belarusian President, caused significant disruption and embarrassment for the country.

A task force meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Sharif on November 24th, reviewed the progress of investigations into the unrest. Attendees included Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema, Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, and Prime Minister’s Advisor Rana Sanaullah, among other senior officials.

The meeting was briefed on the collection of evidence from the scene, including weapons, ammunition casings, and other forensic materials. Authorities are working to swiftly identify and apprehend those involved in the violence, who will then be brought before the courts.

Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that weekly reviews of the legal proceedings against those responsible for the unrest will be conducted. He stressed that those who violated the law during the protests, damaged public property, and injured or killed law enforcement officials will receive appropriate punishment.

He highlighted the embarrassment caused by the timing of the protests, which coincided with the Belarusian President’s state visit.

Looking ahead, Sharif announced plans to establish a world-class, modern anti-riot force to meet current global standards. Furthermore, he intends to upgrade Islamabad’s Safe City project to include a state-of-the-art forensic laboratory, committing to providing all necessary resources for this initiative.