A tragic vehicle attack at the Save Gaza Campaign protest in Islamabad has left two protesters dead and several others injured. The incident occurred at D-Chowk, a central location where demonstrators had gathered to show solidarity with Palestine.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Eyewitnesses reported that a black Toyota Yaris drove into the crowd intentionally. The vehicle appeared to target Former Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, a prominent figure in the protest, but instead struck three members of the media team covering the event. The attack has sparked outrage among the protest organizers and participants, who are demanding justice for the victims.
Despite the presence of Islamabad Police at the scene, the attacker managed to escape without any intervention. This has led to severe criticism of the police force for their perceived inaction during the attack and their subsequent failure to prevent the vehicle from returning to the protest site.
Senator Mushtaq, who was unharmed in the incident, expressed his resolve to continue the sit-in until justice is served. “We will not be intimidated by such acts of violence,” he stated. “We demand accountability and justice for those who lost their lives and for the injured.”
Dr. Humaira Tayyaba, the Chairperson of the Save Gaza Campaign, has accused the Capital City Police of refusing to register a case against the attacker. “We have serious doubts about the police’s commitment to apprehending the right suspect,” she said in a statement. Dr. Tayyaba’s allegations suggest a potential cover-up or negligence on the part of the authorities, further fueling the protestors’ anger and determination.
Save Gaza Campaign’s founder @humairatayyaba addressing the nation about the preplanned attack that happened in the late hours of night at #Dharna4Rafah
Our two protestors got martyred and several injured for STANDING UP FOR GAZAAre we ONE UMMAH!? pic.twitter.com/VHkk6WQnQZ
— Save Gaza Campaign (@SaveGazaPK) May 20, 2024
The Save Gaza Campaign protest had drawn significant attention as demonstrators gathered to voice their support for Palestine amidst ongoing conflicts. The violent turn of events has not only cast a shadow over the peaceful intentions of the protest but also raised concerns about the safety and security of activists in Islamabad.
As the situation develops, the organizers of the protest have vowed to remain at D-Chowk, continuing their demonstration and calling for justice. The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of law enforcement in protecting citizens and ensuring the right to peaceful assembly.
The police have yet to release an official statement regarding the criticisms and the steps being taken to apprehend the attacker. The broader community awaits a thorough investigation and swift action to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Related: Pro-Palestine Protests Sweep US Campuses
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