Violence erupts in Pakistan after the arrest of Ex-PM Imran Khan

Islamabad: Violence broke out across several major cities of Pakistan, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi and Lahore. The residences of military officers were attacked, whereas a radio station in Rawalpindi was set on fire. Army headquarters in Rawalpindi was attacked and vandalized. The violence erupted as the demonstrators protested the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan; about 12 people were reportedly killed. Apparently, Imran Khan has appealed to his supporters to take to the streets. This led to chaos in Pakistan. However, the present government and the military supported the arrest.

Before appearing in the court, Imran Khan released a video suggesting his arrest and that his supporters should take to the street in protest. Hence as soon as the news of his arrest broke out, his supporters started violent protests and vandalism across all major cities of Pakistan. The protestors targeted the military officials and buildings as the military initiated the arrest.

Supporters of Imran Khan attacked Pakistani military bases and even the army headquarters in Rawalpindi. Since its creation, Pakistan has never seen such a massive public outcry against the army. Supporters of Imran Khan have attacked the army, considered the most influential in Pakistan. Government offices also seem to have been targeted by Khan’s supporters. Imran Khan’s supporters are worried that his life is in danger, given how Imran Khan was arrested in public.

Protestors are warning to burn down entire Pakistan if Imran Khan is killed. On the other hand, Internal Security Minister Rana Sanaullah has claimed that there are corruption cases against Imran Khan, and his arrest is justified. The army has accused Imran Khan of hurling insulting statements and accusations against the Pakistan Army. Imran Khan alleged that an army officer had plotted to kill him, which is not an insult to the army.

Supporters of Imran Khan are calling the attacks on Pakistani military officials and their residences fake. They are accusing the Pakistan Army of preparing to implement martial law in the country by carrying out such fake attacks. Neutral observers have warned that the conflict between Pakistan’s army and government with Imran Khan will break Pakistan into pieces. Analysts feel that this chaos and instability will not last long as the economy is in crisis. A few days ago, the Chinese Foreign Minister, who visited Pakistan, also advised the leaders of Pakistan to end the political differences.

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