Syed Ali Shah, Manan Mandokhail:
Several people were injured in a firing during the protest rally of Pakistan Tehrik e Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday evening. Police sources said there was an abrupt firing during the PTI’s rally against the arrest of former Prime Minister, Imran Khan. Police fired tear gas to disperse the highly charged political workers of the PTI.
Waseem Baig, the Spokesman of civil hospital Quetta said one dead body was brought to the hospital. “We are yet to recognize the dead body”, Mr. Baig stated. He informed that six civilians were also brought to the hospital.
Anti-social elements also injured our three officers on airport road Quetta, the Spokesman of Balochistan Police said in a statement. He said the mob attacked the police officers and left three of them injured.
PTI protesters chanting slogans
Images and videos show, protesters chanting full-throated slogans after the firing. A huge contingent of police was deployed to maintain the law and order situation on the eve of the rally.
Tension prevailed on Quetta airport road in the aftermath of the firing. Police fired tear gas to disperse the protesters. Angry protesters also pelted stones at the anti-riot police deployed to maintain the law and order situation.
Section 144 declared in Quetta: Home Minister Balochistan
More police were called into the area to maintain order.
The Balochistan government imposed section 144 and banned all kinds of political gatherings and the display of weapons. “We have imposed 144 to ensure law and order situation”, Balochistan Home Minister, Mir Ziaullah Langove told Daily Quetta Voice via telephone.
CM Balochistan takes notice of the situation
Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Quddus Bizenjo took notice of the situation and directed the inspector general of police and all deputy commissioners to ensure peace during PTI rallies.
“None would be allowed to take the law into his hands”, Mr. Bizenjo said in a statement after the firing incident in the PTI’s protest rally. He directed the law enforcement agencies to bring the elements creating law and order issues to book and award them punishment.
