Pakistan army and police face accusations of firing on Imran Khan supporters during protests
In Islamabad, protests demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan turned violent, with the army and police accused of firing on demonstrators. Reports indicate multiple deaths and hundreds of injuries among the protesters. The protests escalated as tens of thousands of Khan's supporters clashed with security forces, who were ordered to use lethal force to prevent access to the capital's sensitive areas. By late Tuesday, a power blackout was imposed, and a crackdown began, pushing protesters out of the city. While PTI leaders claim dozens were killed, government officials deny any fatalities. Hospitals reported treating numerous gunshot wounds, and there are allegations of a cover-up regarding the number of casualties. Nearly 1,000 protesters were arrested by Wednesday evening.