LAHORE: Four people got injured while three motorbikes were put on fire during an armed clash between two groups in Shahalam Market here on Monday.

As the clash prolonged and the Shahalam market turned into a battlefield for many hours, the traders closed down markets, shops and lodge a strong protest.

Later, scores of police vans along with armed personnel reached the spot, made heavy deployment to maintain law and order situation.

A police official said the incident occurred when two workers scuffled over a minor issue of transporting goods. Later, he said, some traders and other men from both sides reached there and the scuffles turned into an armed clash as a few of them opened fire. Consequently, five people were injured in the exchange of fire and the physical clashes.

Some violent people also burnt three motorbikes and the situation remained tense in the area for many hours.

According to the witnesses, a group of traders blocked the road for traffic and lodged a strong protest.

The SP and other senior police officers also reached there and arrested some attackers including a suspect who opened fire.

There were reports that the situation was still tense till the filing of this report at 10:30pm as scores of traders were protesting against the violence.

The Punjab IG took notice of the incident and directed the police high-ups to take strict action against those who displayed weapons and used them in the crowded market of the city.

Some senior police officers were holding negotiations with the representatives of the traders to bring about peace in the area.

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2022