ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi vowed punitive action against those adamant about taking the law into their hands ahead of a high-profile Belarusian delegation’s visit to the country.

“This time, anyone taking the law into their hands will not walk away,” he said.

The minister visited the Islamabad Police Lines to boost the morale of the force amid an imminent Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) power show in the federal capital.

Addressing officers, the minister commended the dedication of the Islamabad police to maintaining law and order.

He stressed the importance of heightened security measures ahead of the Belarusian delegation’s visit today, followed by the country’s president’s visit a day later.

“We must ensure the safety of Islamabad at all costs,” Naqvi said, urging the force to work as a cohesive team to secure the federal capital. He issued a stern warning against anyone attempting to disrupt peace.

The minister emphasised officers to ensure their safety, instructing them to wear helmets and protective gear during duty and adhere to all precautionary measures. “Your lives are precious to us,” he told the officers, pledging full support to the force.

Naqvi assured that no efforts would be spared to uphold law and order, vowing that the federal capital’s peace and security remain non-negotiable.

Senior officials, including the inspector general of Islamabad police, the chief commissioner and the deputy inspector general were present during the minister’s address, alongside a large contingent of police officers.

Published in Dawn, November 24th, 2024