Fatalities Emerge as Protests Erupt Against KFC Outlets in Pakistan

Police in Pakistan have arrested numerous individuals following a series of protests targeting KFC outlets nationwide, which resulted in the tragic death of a restaurant employee. The protests, fueled by anger over the ongoing conflict in Gaza, have seen demonstrators calling for a boycott of KFC, viewing it as a symbol of U.S. support for Israel. Authorities have reported at least 20 attempted attacks on KFC branches in the past week, prompting a significant police response.

Protests Escalate Across Major Cities

In recent days, protests against KFC have intensified across major cities in Pakistan, with demonstrators expressing their outrage over the situation in Gaza. The protests have been marked by violence, with mobs reportedly entering KFC locations armed with iron rods and threatening to set the establishments ablaze. In Karachi, two KFC outlets were set on fire during these demonstrations. The unrest has led to a heightened police presence outside KFC branches to ensure the safety of customers and staff.

Pakistan’s Minister of State for the Interior, Talal Chaudhry, confirmed that the protests have resulted in significant unrest, with at least 20 attempted attacks on KFC outlets reported in just one week. Videos circulating on social media depict chaotic scenes as protesters confront police and vandalize property. The situation has raised concerns about public safety and the potential for further violence as tensions remain high.

Tragic Death of KFC Employee

The protests took a tragic turn when Asif Nawaz, a 45-year-old KFC employee, was shot and killed during a demonstration in Sheikhupura, near Lahore. Reports indicate that Nawaz was working in the kitchen when he was struck by a bullet fired from a distance of over 100 feet. The police have confirmed that the main suspect in the shooting is still at large, although 40 arrests have been made in connection with the protests.

Sheikhupura Regional Police Officer Athar Ismail stated that the bullet, which typically would not be fatal from that distance, traveled towards Nawaz’s chest after hitting his shoulder. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting and have not ruled out the possibility that it was accidental. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice, highlighting the risks faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of political protests.

Calls for Peaceful Protests

In light of the escalating violence, influential figures in Pakistan have condemned the attacks on KFC and called for peaceful demonstrations. The Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has voiced its opposition to the violence while urging supporters to boycott products linked to the conflict. Prominent Sunni scholar Mufti Taqi Usmani has also encouraged a peaceful approach to protests, emphasizing that Islam does not condone harming others.

Usmani’s remarks at the National Palestine Conference underscored the importance of maintaining non-violent protests while expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause. He stated that while boycotting products associated with Israel is essential, it should not come at the cost of public safety or violence. The TLP has clarified that it has not called for protests specifically targeting KFC, despite the ongoing unrest.

Impact on Western Brands in Pakistan

The protests against KFC are part of a broader trend in which Western brands have faced backlash in Pakistan and other Muslim-majority countries since the onset of the Israel-Gaza conflict. Last year, McDonald’s faced significant pressure to divest from its Israeli operations due to a boycott linked to its perceived support for Israel. Similarly, Starbucks has issued statements calling for peace amid protests and boycott campaigns.

KFC and its parent company, Yum Brands, have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the recent protests and violence. The situation remains fluid, with authorities continuing to monitor developments and enforce security measures to protect both businesses and the public. As tensions persist, the impact on international brands operating in Pakistan may continue to evolve.

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