No justification for vandalism, violation of law: Aamir Liaquat

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) leader Dr Aamir Liaquat Hussain on Monday said that everyone has the right to peaceful protest but there can be no justification for vandalism or violation of the law.

Rangers personnel detained Liaquat shortly after wards. The MQM leader made the statement soon after MQM workers in Karachi turned to violence Monday evening after being told by their party chief to surround the offices of Geo News, Samaa and ARY in Karachi.

During his address, the MQM supremo reportedly also made statements against Pakistan and urged activists to voice slogans against the country. At least one person was killed in the violence.

"I apologise over these incidents of violence," said Aamir Liaquat. He said that whoever was involved in the arson and vandalism must be brought to justice. The MQM leader also said that these events caused damage to the party.

Liaquat, however, said 'Long Live Pakistan’ in a tweet prior to his detention by Rangers personnel.

The workers also caused damage to shops located in Zainab market in the city's Saddar area forcing their closure. Traffic jams were witnessed in areas surrounding I.I.Chundrigar road, while the road leading to CM House was also blocked.

The sudden unrest in the city prompted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to direct authorities for immediate arrest of all those involved in violence. He said that adequate security must be provided to journalists in Karachi.

Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif telephoned DG Rangers Sindh and directed to maintain law and order situation in Karachi. The Army chief said that those who caused the mayhem must be caught at all cost.

DG Rangers during the phone call assured General Raheel that stern action would be taken against the miscreants and their instigators.