ISLAMABAD: A major anti encroachment operation in the Noorpur Shahan area near Bari Imam turned violent on Tuesday, leaving at least eight policemen and dozens of villagers injured after fierce clashes broke out between authorities and residents.

The operation, led by the Capital Development Authority, began in Noori Bagh Mohallah to remove illegal structures. However, as demolition of the first house started, hundreds of villagers including women and children gathered and resisted the move, escalating tensions rapidly.

Residents reportedly pelted officials with stones, forcing the initial team to retreat. In response, a heavy police contingent including anti riot units was deployed, and the operation resumed under strict security, triggering a full scale confrontation.

Police used tear gas and baton charge to disperse the crowd, while villagers intensified resistance with stone pelting and set two official vehicles on fire. Both sides accused each other of firing shots, further intensifying the situation on ground.

Authorities confirmed that several policemen were injured during the clashes, while villagers claimed dozens of residents were hurt due to force used during the operation. The area remained tense as security forces pushed back protesters and continued demolition activities.

Officials said the crackdown is part of an ongoing campaign against illegal settlements, noting that thousands of structures have already been removed in recent months. With multiple access routes sealed and heavy police deployment in place, the incident highlights the growing tensions between urban enforcement drives and local communities in the capital.