Pakistan Police Clash with Ex-PM Khan's Supporters, Dozens Injured

October 5, 2024

ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN - Dozens of Pakistani police officers were injured in clashes with supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday, as tensions escalate in the country’s capital.

The clashes erupted outside the Islamabad High Court, where Khan was set to appear in a corruption case. His supporters, who had gathered in large numbers, attempted to storm the court building, but were met with resistance from the police.

According to eyewitnesses, the police used tear gas and batons to disperse the crowd, but the protesters refused to back down. The situation quickly turned violent, with protesters throwing stones and bricks at the police, who responded with force.

At least 40 police officers were injured in the clashes, with several hospitalized, according to officials. The protesters also claimed that several of their own were injured, but the exact number is not yet known.

Khan, who was ousted as prime minister in April, has been facing a series of corruption charges, which he claims are politically motivated. His supporters have been rallying behind him, accusing the government of attempting to silence him.

The clashes on Tuesday are the latest in a series of confrontations between Khan’s supporters and the government. Last week, the police arrested several of Khan’s party members, including some lawmakers, on charges of rioting and vandalism.

The government has accused Khan of inciting violence and trying to disrupt the country’s institutions. Khan, on the other hand, claims that the government is trying to intimidate him and his supporters.

The situation in Islamabad remains tense, with a heavy police presence in the area. The government has warned of stern action against anyone who tries to disrupt the law and order.

Background:

Imran Khan, the former cricket star-turned-politician, was ousted as prime minister in April after a no-confidence vote. He has since been leading a campaign against the government, accusing it of corruption and incompetence.

The current government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has been facing criticism for its handling of the economy and security issues. Khan’s party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been gaining traction in recent months, with many Pakistanis disillusioned with the current government.

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