RAWALPINDI: Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), underscored the imperative to legally address the perpetrators and facilitators of the May 9 riots to maintain public trust in Pakistan’s justice system. Speaking at a press conference in Rawalpindi, Maj. Gen. Chaudhry stated that the riots were a national issue, affecting not just the army but the entire country.
“The incidents of May 9 are a stain on our national fabric, and addressing this with the full force of the law is essential for our nation’s credibility,” he explained.
The military spokesperson also brought to light the persistent threat of terrorism, specifically from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which he said was operating from Afghan soil. “We have irrefutable evidence linking recent terrorist activities to the TTP using Afghanistan as a base against Pakistan,” Maj. Gen. Chaudhry noted, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Reiterating Pakistan’s resolve in its counter-terrorism efforts, he stated, “Pakistan will spare no effort in dismantling terrorist networks and safeguarding our national security.”
Regarding internal security dynamics, Maj. Gen. Chaudhry also commented on the challenges posed by the presence of Afghan refugees. “While Pakistan has played a host to millions, our hospitality must not be seen as a weakness. Certain elements among the Afghan refugees have been complicit in destabilizing activities, particularly in Balochistan,” he remarked, highlighting the dual challenge of hospitality and security.
He further noted that over half a million Afghan refugees had been repatriated, showcasing Pakistan’s continued efforts to balance humanitarian support with national security imperatives.
“The first and foremost priority of our armed forces remains the maintenance of law and order within our borders,” Maj. Gen. Chaudhry concluded, affirming the army’s commitment to act as a bulwark against any threats to the country’s peace and stability.
