Imran Khan arrest: Army deployed in Pakistan’s Punjab as PTI supporters clash with police

The Pakistan Army has been deployed in Pakistan’s Punjab region to maintain law and order after Imran Khan’s arrest on Tuesday triggered riots across the country. Protesters have clashed violently with police in the past 24 hours with many pelting stones, burning tires and blocking roads. Meanwhile, Khan was indicted in the Toshakhana corruption case by a Pakistani court on Wednesday. 

Details about the Punjab order have not yet been shared, with the army set to work alongside district administration to restore law and order. The official communique indicated that "the exact numbers of troops/assets, date and area of deployment will be worked out by the provincial government in consultation” with the army headquarters.

While exact numbers are not yet available dozens have been injured in the clashes and several people have lost their lives. In eastern Punjab province authorities said 157 police officers were injured in clashes with Khan supporters. 

Police said 945 of his supporters had been arrested in Punjab province after 25 police vehicles and more than 14 government buildings were set on fire.

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At least two people were killed in the overnight violence, one in the southwestern city of Quetta and the other in northwestern Pakistan, and dozens were wounded in various parts of the country. A Peshawar hospital spokesperson said that three people had been killed and 27 wounded in clashes in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)