LAHORE: The Lahore police with the help of the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) identified and arrested 106 suspects believed to be involved in the protests that erupted after the deadly Youhanabad church bombings.
Those arrested are currently being investigated by the police to determine their role in the protests. Videos of the protests and fingerprints from various sites were used to identify people using Nadra’s database.
The suspects are currently being held at unknown locations and it is unclear how long they will be held. All those arrested are from the Christian community.
Following the terrorist attacks on the two churches in Lahore’s Youhanabad, overcome by their emotions and anger many young men belonging to the Christian community came out on the streets.
Protesters in Lahore’s Youhanabad area clashed with dozens of baton-wielding police personnel.
During the protest, stones were pelted at policemen holding up protective plastic shields. Protesters in Lahore had also blocked roads ? including a major highway that runs near the two attacked churches ? preventing cars from passing. Losses were also caused to the facilities provided at Metrobus stops.
The police had been given instructions by the Punjab government to use tear gas to disperse the crowd. Water canons were also used to push back the protesters.
Two died and several others were injured near Nishtar Colony when a terrified school teacher, surrounded by protesters, attempted to escape and accidentally hit the demonstrators circling her car.
TV footage also showed some men attacking a vehicle loaded with crates of soft beverages, and making off with dozens of bottles.
The situation was brought under control of police by the evening, as fresh contingents arrived at the site of the protest. Rangers also reached the protest site on the directives of the Punjab Home Department.
Talks between the Punjab government and Christian community had concluded successfully, with authorities forming a joint investigation team (JIT) in order to identify the suicide bombers through forensic reports and Nadra.
INP
