- Dozens arrested in Karachi during a PTI rally supporting Imran Khan.
- Clashes erupted as PTI supporters gathered to express solidarity with Khan.
- Arrests highlight tensions and political dynamics in the region.
In a recent development, police apprehended numerous supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party after clashes erupted during a bike rally in the city. The rally was organized as an expression of solidarity with imprisoned PTI leader Imran Khan. Over 100 PTI supporters from various parts of the city participated in the bike rally, which culminated in confrontations with law enforcement.
The former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, who was ousted from office through a no-confidence vote in April of the preceding year, is currently serving a three-year jail term at Attock jail. His arrest on August 5 stemmed from his conviction in the Toshakhana case, wherein he was found guilty of corrupt practices related to the state gift depository. These allegations, which Khan vehemently denies, centered around the misuse of his premiership to purchase and sell gifts received during foreign visits, totaling more than 140 million Pakistani rupees ($635,000).
During the bike rally held in support of Khan, confrontations ensued at the Nursery bus stop on Sharae Faisal. Subsequently, a considerable number of PTI supporters were taken into custody by the police. Additionally, a separate gathering of PTI workers, including women, convened at Numaish Chowrangi in solidarity with the imprisoned leader. Police responded by using baton charges to disperse the rally, leading to further arrests.
According to law enforcement sources, six PTI supporters were apprehended near Awami Markaz, while ten were taken into custody in Shah Latif Town. The detained individuals were reportedly en route from Quaidabad to Insaf House.
Khurram Sher Zaman, the president of PTI’s Karachi chapter, condemned the police action against party supporters, asserting that peaceful protests are an integral right within a democratic framework. He further highlighted that the crackdown resulted in the arrest of numerous PTI workers across the city.
As the situation unfolds, tensions between the authorities and PTI supporters have escalated, casting a spotlight on the ongoing political dynamics in the region.