Midnight chaos hits Pakistan capital as Khan supporters clash with security forces
Mass-protests in Islamabad turned violent when thousands tried reaching the red zone demanding ex-PM Khanʼs freedom. Security forces conducted late-night raid arresting hundreds while multiple casualties reported on both sides
A large-scale protest in Islamabad turned into chaos when security forces launched a midnight-raid against Imran Khanʼs supporters (who tried reaching the cityʼs protected red zone)
The demonstration began when Bushra Bibi‚ Khanʼs wife led a convoy breaking thru security lines; thousands joined demanding the ex-PMs release from his 15-month imprisonment. The red zone — which houses govt buildings and foreign missions was heavily guarded by army personnel
Violent exchanges resulted in multiple deaths: four para-military soldiers lost their lives while Zulfikar Bukhari from PTI party confirmed two protesters deaths; one shot and another run-over. The protesters damaged property set-up fires and used various make-shift weapons
It is not a peaceful protest. It is extremism
Mohsin Naqvi the Interior Minister didnt accept any talks with protesters — who he said were heavily-armed breaking cityʼs gathering rules. The situation got worse when lights were cut-off and tear-gas was used to disperse the crowd
The protest comes after Feb elections where Khan-backed candidates won most seats but couldnt form govt. His party PTI claims the polls were fixed to keep him away from power: a claim the military denies
- Protesters used tear gas launchers
- Steel rods and slingshots were spotted
- Multiple journalists got hurt
- Police kiosk was set on fire
The share market reacted badly to these events with benchmark index dropping 3.57% showing investors dont like political instability
