IGP raises concerns of foreign involvement in Jaranwala incident

Lahore: Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Usman Anwar, expressed concerns on Friday regarding potential foreign involvement in the recent tragic events that took place in Jaranwala.

A violent mob set fire to five churches, causing extensive damage.

IGP Anwar indicated that the timing and organized actions of the main suspects have raised suspicions of a well-coordinated plan. Although it is too early to definitively establish external involvement, the Joint Investigation Team will thoroughly investigate this angle, he added.

IGP Anwar suggested that the perpetrators might have aimed to divert attention from the distressing situation of women who have suffered heinous acts in a neighboring country.

"The sheer scale of the disorderly crowd, estimated to be between five to six thousand individuals, posed a significant challenge for law enforcement. The potential risk to lives, if authorities had directly confronted the situation, was a major consideration in their approach," explained IGP Anwar.

"We recognize the concerns and frustrations about our response," IGP Anwar acknowledged. "However, ensuring the safety of innocent lives amidst the chaos was paramount."

More than 130 individuals involved in the arson of the churches have already been arrested, including the primary suspects, according to Mr. Usman.

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) aided the ongoing investigation by identifying over 170 individuals.

Addressing the broader implications, IGP Anwar emphasized the importance of repairing Pakistan's global reputation and ensuring justice for the victims.

"We are dedicated to holding accountable those responsible for initiating this senseless violence within the confines of the law," he asserted. He emphasized that political or partisan interests should not overshadow the pursuit of justice.

IGP Anwar acknowledged that any efforts by political factions to exploit the incident for personal gain would be unfortunate, but he expressed confidence that the country's unity and commitment to justice would ultimately prevail.