ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has reiterated government’s commitment that criminals would be rounded up across the country regardless of their political association.
“A criminal is criminal, whether it belongs to PML-N or MQM,” the minister said while briefing Senate’s Standing Committee here in Islamabad.

About last week’s Rangers raid on MQM headquarters, Nine Zero, he said the operation was not meant to sideline any political group, saying that he would formally respond over the issue in National Assembly this evening.

“We will listen to MQM for its reservations but elimination of criminals is necessary,” he said.

About Sunday’s twin suicide blasts in two churches of Lahore, the minister said the attacks were aimed to spread hatred and differences among Pakistanis.

“The terrorists are trying to hit soft targets in our society like mosques, churches and schools… We should demonstrate unity against them… Those who took law in their hands pursued agenda of terrorists.”

At least 15 people were killed and over 80 others wounded when two suicide bombers blew themselves up during prayers at two churches in Youhanabad neighbourhood of Lahore.

The suicide blasts sparked mob violence in the city. The mob smashed vehicles and attacked a city bus station in a rare show of anger following the blasts.