ISLAMABAD – Pakistani authorities are mobilising security forces for a major crackdown on supporters of former prime minister Imran Khan as the capital city witnessed chaotic scenes on Tuesday, with key arterial routes sealed amid massive deployment of security forces.
Sources familiar with the development told Pakistan Observer that a large-scale security operation is set to take place in metropolis, with the government mobilizing significant forces to respond to the ongoing unrest. The operation is expected to start soon, with security forces getting directions to clear D-Chowk, where Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) plans to stage sit-in.
Earlier in the day, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, accompanied by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, ruled out any possibility of negotiations with PTI, stressing that the government will take a firm stance in maintaining law and order. Naqvi pointed to Khan’s wife as culprit behind the turmoil.
The government’s expected crackdown comes amid increasing tensions between PTI and the ruling coalition, which has led to violent confrontations in recent times.
Imran Khan, who remained behind bars, has been a prominent figure in the protests, with his supporters rallying behind his wife, who has reportedly played a leading role in coordinating PTI’s actions from behind the scenes. The government’s decision to target key figures linked to PTI, including those closest to the jailed leader, signals a significant escalation in the ongoing political crisis.
Supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan clashed with security forces in Islamabad, with four security personnel reportedly killed when they were run over by a vehicle.
The government condemned the violence, calling it extremism, while PTI rejected the claim that the protesters caused the deaths, alleging the government was fabricating the story. Amnesty International criticized the excessive force used against the protesters. The situation remains tense as authorities have arrested over 4,000 protesters and imposed travel restrictions, while Khan’s supporters continue their sit-in.
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