Police crackdown on PTI protesters in Karachi, arrests reported

Police launched a crackdown on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters who took to the streets in various parts of Karachi to protest.

The action, carried out under the orders of the Pakistan People's Party-led Sindh government, involved tear gas shelling, baton charges, and multiple arrests.

Protesters clashed with law enforcement in several areas, including University Road, turning key parts of the city into virtual battlegrounds.

Demonstrators reportedly responded with stone-pelting as police moved in to disperse the gatherings.

Several PTI workers were detained during the operation, and tensions remained high in various neighborhoods.

In response to the unrest, a heavy contingent of police and paramilitary forces was deployed to maintain order and prevent further clashes.

Read more: PTI suffers major setback as ECP disqualifies 9 lawmakers including top leaders

 Amid a ban on public gatherings in twin cities, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is holding protest demonstrations in different parts of the country to demand release of party founder Imran Khan, who completed two years in prison on August 5 (today).

 Former PM, in a message posted on the party's X account, urged supporters to "come out and hold peaceful protests until a true democracy is restored in the country".

The former cricket star was elected prime minister in 2018 but was ousted in 2022 through a no-confidence vote in parliament.