At least 20 people were killed in violent clashes in Gilgit-Baltistan following the assassination of Ali Khamenei, with authorities announcing that suspects involved in attacks on military installations will face trial in military courts.
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Speaking at a press conference in Gilgit on Thursday, Nasir Akbar Khan, Inspector General of Police for Gilgit-Baltistan, said cases related to the recent unrest in Gilgit and Skardu had been registered under anti-terrorism laws. The violence erupted after reports of Khamenei’s assassination during joint attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.
The police chief said the attacks targeted security institutions, military installations, residences of police officers, educational institutions, offices of the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme and IT centres. According to him, the incidents appeared to have been carefully planned and organised rather than spontaneous acts.
Khan said anti-Pakistan elements were attempting to create instability by provoking public sentiment and putting pressure on security resources. Religious scholars from different groups had also clarified that those responsible for the violence had no connection with them, he added.
Authorities have formed a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to probe the incidents, led by senior police officers in Gilgit and Skardu. The IGP said investigations were ongoing and arrests would only be made once those responsible were fully identified.
He explained that attacks on military installations fall under Pakistan’s military laws and would be tried in military courts, while cases involving damage to public or private property would be pursued under anti-terrorism provisions.
According to preliminary figures, 10 people — including three security personnel — were killed in clashes in Skardu, while another 10 died in Gilgit near a United Nations office. More than 25 people were injured in Skardu and about 13 in Gilgit, including police and military personnel.
Authorities have lifted the curfew in Gilgit, though security remains on high alert in sensitive areas. Curfew restrictions continue in Skardu with adjusted timings to allow daily activities. Security at entry and exit points of Gilgit-Baltistan has also been tightened amid warnings of possible further disruptions.
