KFC attack: Rawalpindi police arrest main suspect, continue search for others

Authorities in Rawalpindi launched a crackdown on individuals involved in ransacking a KFC outlet during protests against the Israeli military offensive in the Gaza Strip. A video of the incident went viral on social media, prompting swift action from law enforcement.

According to reports, operations are underway against those who targeted private businesses under the guise of protesting Israel’s war on Gaza. Four suspects involved in the attack on the foreign fast-food outlet have been identified.

Police arrested two of the suspects, while raids are ongoing to apprehend the remaining two.

Officials stated that the main suspect was arrested from Gojra Chowk and has been transferred to the Cantt police station for further investigation.

Check: Pro-Palestine protesters vandalize KFC, Domino’s outlets in Karachi

Authorities emphasised that strict action will be taken against anyone found damaging economic interests or disrupting commercial activity in the country.

A group of enraged men stormed a KFC branch in Rawalpindi’s Saddar area and vandalised the outlet as part of a protest over the fast-food chain’s alleged ties to Israel.

One of the individuals entered the restaurant wielding a baseball bat, damaged property, and hurled ab*ses at customers for dining at an establishment listed on pro-Palestine boycott lists. 

According to BDS, KFC’s parent company, Yum! Brands is an investor in Israeli startups.

Panic broke out among the diners as the mob shouted slogans and warned them to vacate the restaurant in support of the Palestinian cause.

Read: KFC closes over 100 outlets amid Gaza boycott

The restaurant staff appeared visibly shaken. Police arrived at the scene shortly afterward. The KFC branch was reportedly closed following the incident.

Meanwhile, a person was killed in a shooting at a foreign food outlet at Lahore Bypass Chowk in Sheikhupura, Punjab.

According to DPO Bilal Zafar Sheikh, the motorcycle-borne attacker opened fire and fled. A heavy police contingent reached the spot. Investigation is underway to arrest the suspect.