Clashes erupt in Islamabad as supporters demand release of Imran Khan
npr.org —
Supporters of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan clashed with police in Islamabad on Tuesday, demanding his release from prison. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds, resulting in at least one death and numerous injuries, including a journalist. Khan's supporters broke through police barricades and ignored government warnings of a violent response. Authorities have arrested over 4,000 protesters since Friday and restricted mobile and internet services in parts of the country to limit communication. Khan, imprisoned since August 2023, faces over 150 criminal cases, which his party claims are politically motivated. A court has banned rallies in the capital, and travel has been severely disrupted due to roadblocks.