The number of individuals accused in connection with violent protests and attacks on police in Lahore has risen to 681, according to Punjab police authorities.
Police officials said the crackdown has now been expanded to other cities across the province to arrest those involved in the recent unrest. So far, more than 5,600 people have been arrested across Punjab for their alleged role in violent demonstrations.
Authorities confirmed that investigators are identifying more suspects with the help of mobile phone data, WhatsApp communication records, and social media activity.
“Police are tracing individuals involved in creating chaos through social media,” a police spokesperson stated, adding that several digital accounts of miscreants are under surveillance.
The violent clashes left 250 police officers and personnel injured, while one inspector embraced martyrdom during confrontations with rioters. Lahore reported the highest number of casualties, with 142 police personnel injured, followed by 48 in Sheikhupura, officials confirmed.
Meanwhile, security sources revealed that the organizers behind Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) recent violent protests have been identified, and a detailed list of their names has been compiled.
“Through geo-fencing, the countrywide network and command points of the group have been traced. Call data records have exposed the masterminds and key operatives,” sources added.
Authorities have also prepared lists of TLP financiers and facilitators, with a large-scale crackdown expected soon.
TLP chief Saad Hussain Rizvi, along with several party workers, has been charged under anti-terrorism laws for their alleged involvement in violent attacks on police in Rawat, Taxila, and Muridke.
