TLP protests: PM Imran directs Punjab govt to prepare compensation package

ISLAMABAD - Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed the Usman Buzdar-led Punjab government to prepare a compensation package for the loss of property and valuables incurred during the protests staged by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan.

The directives come a day after the Interior Ministry briefed the premier on the demonstrations led by the religious group - against the acquittal of Asia Bibi - and the progress on the crackdown against miscreants.

According to the interior ministry, approximately 1,800 people have been arrested for arson, vandalism and torture of ordinary citizens and law enforcement agencies officials during the three-day long protests that had chocked routine life across Pakistan.

Religious parties, mainly TLP and Tehreek-e-Lbbaik Ya Rasool Allah (PBUH) staged demonstrations last week after the apex court acquitted blasphemy suspect, Asia Bibi.

The protests ended after an agreement with the government on Friday night following which the law enforcers started arresting those involved in violent protests.

KP Submits Report

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police on Wednesday submitted a report to the interior ministry regarding vandalism and arson during demonstrations according to which the incidents occurred in Nowshera and Hangu with suspects involved in inciting violence arrested as well.

25 cases have been registered against those involved in violent protests out of which eight suspects have been arrested, the report stated.

Moreover, the report stated that 17 suspects that set fire to the Rashakai Interchange Toll Plaza have been nabbed with efforts under way to arrest the remaining suspects.