Talal Chaudhry Vows Action Against Attacks on International Food Chains

Government Pledges Investor Protection Amid Fast-Food Chain Violence

Minister of State for Interior, Talal Chaudhry, has strongly denounced the recent spate of attacks on international food chains across Pakistan, pledging decisive action against those responsible. Speaking at a press conference in Faisalabad, Chaudhry reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding both local and foreign investors, emphasizing that such acts of violence are unacceptable.

Chaudhry disclosed that nearly 20 incidents targeting private, predominantly foreign fast-food outlets had occurred in recent days. In Punjab alone, 12 FIRs were lodged, leading to 142 arrests, while two similar incidents in Islamabad resulted in 15 arrests.

The minister highlighted the broader economic impact, noting that these food chains employ approximately 25,000 Pakistanis. He condemned the attacks as not only harmful to livelihoods but also detrimental to the nation's economy and values. "Such actions are un-Islamic and undermine our economic stability," he stated.

Chaudhry also revealed that many of those apprehended expressed remorse for their actions, with some admitting their mistakes and apologizing. He clarified that no political party had endorsed or taken responsibility for the violence and assured the public that the situation had stabilized, with no new incidents reported since the previous day.

The wave of attacks had raised serious concerns about investor security and the economic repercussions of such unrest.