Pakistan Detains Thousands as Imran Khan Supporters Rally in Islamabad

[Suyuti]

Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, is on high alert as authorities detain over 4,000 supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan ahead of a major protest demanding his release and the resignation of the current government.

The crackdown has been particularly focused in Lahore and other key cities, with police rounding up Khan's supporters—including several members of his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). According to Shahid Nawaz, a security officer in Punjab, those detained include five parliamentarians.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that further arrests would follow if more supporters attempt to enter Islamabad's heavily fortified Red Zone. The Red Zone, home to key government buildings, has been sealed off in an effort to prevent protesters from accessing it.

"The situation is under control, and we will ensure no one breaches security," Naqvi stated, adding that the protests were causing major disruptions to daily life in the city.

Protest on the Move

Despite the heavy security presence, Khan's supporters are determined to march to Islamabad. Many began their journey to the capital on Monday, traveling in large convoys and joining together in Peshawar to show their support. In Peshawar, the streets were filled with PTI supporters who danced, played drums, and waved images of Khan as they set off toward the capital.

Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, and Ali Amin Gandapur, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are leading one of the prominent rallies, which reached the outskirts of Islamabad on Sunday evening. The protests are seen as part of a larger campaign by PTI to call for Khan's freedom. The former Prime Minister has been incarcerated for over a year and faces numerous charges, which his party claims are politically motivated.

Government Tightens Security

In anticipation of the protest, the government imposed strict security measures, including sealing off roads to prevent access to the capital. Shipping containers have been placed at key entry points, blocking traffic from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PTI's strongholds. These actions have significantly impacted travel across the country.

The rally is being called Khan's "final call" for freedom, with the PTI planning to escalate their efforts until their demands are met. However, previous demonstrations have turned violent, leading to heightened fears of unrest.

Communication Disruptions

Adding to the tense atmosphere, Pakistan's government imposed a temporary suspension of mobile and internet services in areas deemed to be high-risk, including parts of Islamabad. While the Interior Minister denied a full shutdown of communication networks, reports suggest mobile data services were deliberately disrupted. In response, some telecom companies are offering alternative landline services to affected areas.

Social media platforms, including WhatsApp, have been crucial in mobilizing support for Khan's release, and the government has taken steps to restrict access to VPNs and block content related to the protests.

International Attention

The ongoing situation has drawn international attention, with the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad issuing a security alert for American citizens. The embassy warned that even peaceful protests could quickly escalate into violence, urging Americans to avoid large gatherings.

Khan's removal from power in 2022 followed a falling-out with Pakistan's powerful military, which holds considerable sway over the nation's politics. As PTI's protests continue to grow, the government's response will likely define the future of Pakistan's political landscape.