Pakistan Army told to 'shoot on sight' as protests turn deadly
Pakistan's army has been ordered to 'shoot on sight' after clashes with demonstrators killed four soldiers and at least one protester.
The unrest erupted late Monday when protesters demanding the release of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan entered Islamabad, challenging the government's attempts to suppress nationwide demonstrations.
Reports from local media revealed that four paratroopers lost their lives, prompting the military to invoke Article 245 of the Constitution, authorizing a 'shoot on sight' directive. The government, however, has not yet confirmed these reports.
Authorities have attributed the turmoil to Khan's supporters. Earlier on Monday, officials reported the death of a police officer and injuries to more than 119 people. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that some injuries, sustained during the clashes, were caused by gunfire.
A major convoy, organized by Khan's allies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, dismantled roadblocks on their route to the capital despite attempts by security forces to disperse them using tear gas. Officials said hundreds of protesters across various cities had been detained in connection with the protests.
The demonstrations began on Sunday after Khan, who remains in custody, urged his supporters to mobilize. Despite receiving bail or suspension of sentences in some of the legal cases against him, Khan has been incarcerated for over a year. The former cricket star-turned-politician faces more than 150 charges, including corruption, inciting violence, and abuse of power, stemming from his tenure as prime minister.
In response to the unrest, the local administration in Islamabad ordered the closure of all educational institutions and imposed restrictions, including a ban on gatherings of more than five people. Mobile services in some areas have also been suspended as part of the government's efforts to maintain order.
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