Imran Khan supporters storm Pakistan: containers toppled, clashes erupt, army issues ‘shoot on sight’ order
by Ekta ChaubeyThousands of supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan stormed Pakistan, blocking roads with shipping containers, breaking through barricades, and clashing with security forces. Army ordered a ‘shoot at sight’ order.
The incident took place at the D Chowk in Islamabad city on November 26.
Visuals showed protesters using ropes to pull down a shipping container. As the container toppled, they erupted in celebration, standing atop other containers. The army attempted to intervene and stop them.
According to reports, the protests, demanding Khan’s release from prison, have left six people dead and dozens injured, including journalists. Security forces, including the army, police, and paramilitary rangers, have been deployed across Islamabad, especially in the Red Zone, a high-security area housing key government buildings. The army took control of D-Chowk, where visiting Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko is staying.
Despite heavy security and tear gas, protesters, many carrying Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) flags, marched toward the Red Zone. The demonstrations are led by Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, who progressed in a heavily guarded convoy surrounded by supporters.
Four security personnel and one civilian were killed overnight when a vehicle rammed into them. A police officer also died separately. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the violence, blaming an “anarchist group” for targeting law enforcement. Internet and mobile services have been disrupted, hampering PTI’s reliance on social media to coordinate protests. Protesters vowed to stay until Khan’s release, with one supporter stating, “We will not leave until Khan is among us.”