Mob attacked Islamabad police in an attempt to lynch blasphemy suspect

When it comes to blasphemy, vigilante justice has always been the norm in Pakistan. According to Al Jazeera, since 1990, at least 78 people have been murdered in mob violence and targeted attacks related to blasphemy accusations. The religious fanatics of the country barely trouble the courts and the judges with blasphemy cases; they themselves assume the responsibility of settling them outside, on the streets, in cold blood. This is evident from the latest incident that occurred in Islamabad yesterday. What Happened: On Monday night, police officers of the Golra Sharif police station in Islamabad were attacked by an angry mob brandishing rods and batons, in an attempt to lynch a suspect held in custody by the police office on account of blasphemy accusations. While the gate of the police station was locked secure against the outraged people, they somehow gained entry after overpowering the guards stationed outside, ravaging the offices of investigating officers and the station house officer. How Did The Police React: The policemen confined themselves as well as the suspect in lock-up rooms and other rooms to escape the wrath of the mob, and contacted a police contingent for help. Police reinforcement, including personnel of the counterterrorism department, anti-terrorist squad and, the anti-riot unit immediately arrived at the police station to restore order and rescue the staff. Using teargas shelling, they succeeded in ousting the protestors from the premises and vacating the police station. What Next: In the dark of a blackout in the police station and its vicinity, the man detained on the charge of blasphemy has been relocated to an undisclosed location under strict security. The area had been enclosed by police patrolling it on foot while all routes to the police station have been sealed temporarily. ATS, CTD, and ARU reinforcements have been stationed at the sealing points. As of now, Assistant Inspector General of Police Mohammad Usman Tipu has announced that details of the attack will be shared with the public after the dust settles and the situation is calm and safe in the area again.