TDS Desk:

Election Commissioner Brig. Gen. (retd.) Abul Fazal Sanaullah on Sunday issued a blunt warning against violence and covert attacks ahead of the polls, saying there would be no leniency for those who engage in killings, vandalism, or attempts to disrupt voting.

Speaking at an evening briefing at the Election Commission Building, Sanaullah said the message was clear. “We will be humane, but there is no need to be humane towards those who carry out violence, destruction, and murder,” he said.

He said law enforcement agencies had been instructed to follow a policy of humane policing since August 2024, but some groups had exploited that restraint to carry out violent acts. “That opportunity will no longer be given,” he warned.

Referring to the killing of Shaheed Osman Hadi, Sanaullah said the incident had shaken the nation and that the grief must be turned into resolve. “Those who want to undermine the election will fail,” he said.

He said six people had been detained in connection with the killing. Of the three main suspects, two have been arrested and one remains at large. Intelligence agencies and security forces have been placed on alert to ensure no suspect escapes, he added.

“Anyone who has committed crimes by exploiting public emotion will face the consequences,” Sanaullah said, adding that clear instructions would be issued to law enforcement agencies.

He said the Election Commission had ordered steps to prevent any actions that could damage the electoral environment. Joint force operations will begin at the field level, with drives to seize illegal weapons and make arrests. Police have also been instructed to ensure security for candidates from all political parties.