COAS Gen. Syed Asim Munir Vows to Bring Justice to Perpetrators of Vandalism on 'Black Day'

In a visit to the Corps Headquarters in Peshawar, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah expressed a firm determination to ensure that all individuals involved in the vandalism that took place on the Black Day of May 9 are brought to justice. The armed forces, under no circumstances, will tolerate any further violations of the sanctity and security of its installations or acts of vandalism. The COAS emphasized the need to apprehend and prosecute the planners, abettors, instigators, and executors of the destructive events that unfolded on that day.

Following the arrest of chairman of PTI, Imran Niazi, on May 9 in the Al-Qadir Trust case, violent protests erupted across the country, led by party workers from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). These protests resulted in significant damage to public properties and targeted military installations, including the Lahore Corps Commander House and the General Headquarters (GHQ). Tragically, the unrest led to the loss of at least ten lives, with numerous individuals sustaining injuries. Furthermore, internet services were suspended for over 72 hours as part of the security measures.

The armed forces condemned the events that transpired on May 9, 2023, and characterized it as a dark chapter in the nation's history. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a statement denouncing the coordinated attacks on the military, labeling the PTI leaders as "hypocrites" for inciting their workers against the armed forces while simultaneously attempting to overshadow their criticism through expressions of praise.

During his engagement with military personnel, COAS Gen. Hafiz Munir addressed the corps officers and underscored the evolving threats to national security. He emphasized the commitment to peace and stability, asserting that there would be no room for those seeking to disrupt the process. The COAS highlighted the challenges posed by information warfare and the deliberate efforts of hostile elements to target the armed forces. However, he pledged to thwart such nefarious attempts with the support of the Pakistani people.

Additionally, General Munir received a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing security situation and the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. He commended the professional competence, performance, and achievements of the law enforcement agencies in their tireless fight against terrorism.