Addressing a press conference shortly after the incident took place, Punjab government spokesperson Hassan Khawar said that police was thoroughly investigating the incident after direct orders from the prime minister and Chief Minister Usman Buzdar.
He briefed the media that 50 people had already been arrested and more were being identified with the help of the CCTV footage. He said that the Commissioner and regional police officer (RPO) Gujranwala were on the site of the horrific incident and were supervising the investigation personally.
Khawar added that Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Rao Sardar Ali Khan had ordered that the investigation be completed and the report be submitted within 48 hours. He added the CM was in direct contact with the police and administration regarding the investigation. Khawar said that an impartial inquiry will be conducted, assuring that justice will be served.
Khawar was accompanied by Punjab IGP and PM’s aide on interfaith harmony Hafiz Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi. Speaking on the occasion Ashrafi condemned the violent event and said that those involved in this barbaric crime had brought shame to Islam and Pakistan. He said that Islam preached peace and rejected violence, and hence those who took part in this shameful act defied the teaching of the Prophet.
He added that ulema from all sects, including the Pakistan Ulema Council, have condemned the incident. Further, he said that ulema will soon hold a press conference to condemn this incident and also visit the Sri Lankan embassy to express their condolence. He informed the media that sections from the Anti-Terrorism Act will also be included in the charges framed against the suspects.