LAHORE: The first Haj flight PA-471, from Jeddah to Lahore, carrying 230 pilgrims arrived here at Allama Iqbal International Airport in wee hours Sunday.
The Air Blue flight arrived in the city around 2:00 am. The Hajis were welcomed by the Director Haj Malik Rehan Abbas Khokhar, Deputy Director Zakaullah and Mujeeb Akbar Shah and Air Blue Station Manager Kanwar Yasar.
The Hajis, while talking to media, hailed arrangements made by the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Saudi Arabia. They stated that the arrangements for transport, residence and meals were up to the mark.
They appreciated Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Mufti Abdul Shakoor and Secretary for Religious Affairs Aftab Akbar Durrani for making good arrangements.
Reports indicate that they tried to breach one of gates, harassed staff, and even scaled walls of premises
Nasir praised role of Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi, who controlled situation with tolerance
A fierce exchange of fire ensued, but culprits managed to escape under cover of darkness
Police said booked leaders and BYC workers gathered at main Turbat Chowk
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Bokhari emphasised that cases have been registered against "Fasadis", and no one will be spared
