Authorities have reportedly arrested thousands of Imran Khan's supporters ahead of a planned rally in Islamabad. In an effort to prevent the gathering, officials blocked major routes leading to the capital.

The Pakistani capital, Islamabad, was placed under a security lockdown on Sunday as supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan staged demonstrations demanding his release.

The protesters called for the release of Khan and other members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. They also demanded the resignation of the current government, alleging that the recent election was rigged.

According to the Associated Press, thousands of Khan’s supporters, including five parliamentarians, were arrested, as reported by a security official. In response to the protests, the government suspended mobile and internet services in "areas with security concerns."

Authorities blocked major highways leading to Islamabad, anticipating that PTI supporters would approach the city from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. Meanwhile, in Lahore, police detained PTI members, causing bystanders to struggle through road blockades.

Citing legal provisions, local police issued a statement banning all forms of gatherings. Ali Amin Gandapur, the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and a close aide to Khan, urged supporters to assemble near the entrance of the city’s red zone, referred to as "D Chowk."

"Khan has called on us to remain there till all our demands are met," Gandapur declared in a video statement.

The Pakistani government had implemented similar measures in October in anticipation of protests by Khan’s supporters. That earlier protest turned violent, resulting in the death of one policeman, injuries to dozens of security personnel, and the arrest of protesters. Both sides blamed each other for the violence.

Imran Khan, who was ousted from office through a no-confidence vote in April 2022, has been serving a three-year prison sentence since 2023. Despite facing approximately 150 criminal cases, including allegations of corruption and incitement to violence, he remains a significant figure in Pakistani politics. His supporters claim the charges against him are politically motivated.

Although Khan was granted bail in December 2023, he remains in custody due to various ongoing legal issues stemming from his ousting in 2022. Both Khan and the PTI party deny all accusations leveled against them.