The government of Punjab, Pakistan, has announced its decision to arrest the Rizvi brothers, leaders of a proscribed religious party, citing the need to protect human lives and maintain order in the province. This move signals a hard-line stance against any group challenging the state’s authority following recent violent demonstrations.
Addressing a press conference in Lahore, Punjab Information and Culture Minister Uzma Bukhari delivered a strong message, stating that no one would be permitted to take the law into their own hands or disrupt the peace. “We will not allow armed groups to challenge the writ of the state,” she declared. “For the protection of human lives, the Rizvi brothers will also be arrested soon.”
Bukhari condemned the violence that occurred during recent protests, noting that police officers were attacked, their vehicles were snatched, and public property was damaged and set on fire.
This announcement coincides with a broader government crackdown on illegal arms in the province. The Information Minister revealed that while over one million individual arms licenses exist in Punjab, no new licenses will be issued. She also stated that the licenses of 28 arms dealers have been revoked, and shops operating without proper authorization have been sealed.
