Violent protests continue in twin cities

ISLAMABAD/RAWALPINDI: Violent protests continued whole day today in Faizabad and Bara Kahu areas against increase in fares of public transport.

Protestors set bonfires and pelted stones at police, which resorted to tear gas shelling and firing causing injuries to many.

According to recent reports protestors came out again after remaining calm for sometime and blocked Murree Road.

A peace rally was taken out under the auspices of PML-N, Pakistan People’s Party and traders organization, which brought situation under control.

The demonstrators also attacked a vehicle of the UN inspection team probing the murder of Benazir Bhutto.

On the other hand, Rangers have been called in Faizabad to bring situation under control.

Angry protestors smashed windowpanes of shops and vehicles, set ablaze a car and blocked the road. Five policemen sustained injuries during the protest.

Faizabad interchange was cleared for traffic after situation came under control.

Meanwhile, PML-N MNA Tariq Fazal Chaudhry talked to the protestors but failed to convince them.

Police have arrested several protestors as severe shelling and aerial firing continued in these areas.

Interior Minister Rehman Malik said youth wings of some political parties provoked protestors in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Talking to media outside Parliament House on Friday, he said stern action would be taken against those involved in violent incidents.

Sporadic clashes have also been reported. Protestors blamed that administration has been failed to rein in transporters who charged increased fares.