Pakistani army moves into capitol as protesters demand release of imprisoned PM Imran Khan

Pakistan deployed its army in the country's capital on Tuesday, as fatal clashes between police and supporters of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan escalated. As hundreds of people marched to Islamabad to demand Khan's release, authorities claimed that at least six security personnel were killed in the clashes. Officials have now issued orders to shoot protesters if necessary, The New York Times reported.

The capital was placed under lockdown by Pakistan's military-backed civilian government after Khan called on his supporters to protest his imprisonment. The popular politician, who was ousted in 2022, has been jailed since August of last year on various corruption charges. Authorities blocked roadways and cut off internet and cellular access in a number of locations. On Monday night, however, demonstrators were able to breach the security measures and enter the city.

The protesters pushed forward into a public square close to major government buildings, where they intended to stage a rally, but were met with rubber bullets and tear gas by the police. Demonstrators lifted cargo containers that had been set up to impede their movements and tore down the barriers. In front of a slow-moving caravan, Khan supporters danced while patriotic songs blared from passing cars, with some yelling, "Revolution! Revolution!"

On Tuesday, security officials announced that troops had been told to shoot if necessary and that the army had been sent in to guard key government locations. Additionally, officials reported that demonstrators had killed four parliamentary troops overnight by running them over with a car. Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, has denied the allegations. Earlier fighting was said to have killed two police officers. Demonstrators also reportedly attacked a number of journalists, including an AP photographer who was allegedly assaulted and had his car damaged.

Mr. Khan and his supporters contend that his arrest was a politically motivated attempt to sideline him following his public criticism of the military. The former PM claimed his detention was an effort from the government and military to suppress his party and undermine democracy, including the manipulation of elections. He has also criticized recent legal changes that restrict the authority of Pakistan's judiciary, asserting that they are intended to prevent him from assuming office.

The government has maintained that the charges against Khan are legitimate.