Imran Khan's supporters withdraw protest, retreat from Islamabad

A day of pitched battles between Pakistan's security forces and PTI protesters across the country's federal capital ended in a hasty retreat of the party’s top leadership and supporters from the Red Zone in the early hours of Wednesday, Dawn reports. 

At least six lives were lost in the three days of protests, which included a policeman and three Rangers officials who perished in a vehicular accident, officials and hospital sources said.

The late-night retreat by the PTI leadership, including Bushra Bibi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, came after the latter was heard telling the protesters “to go home, have dinner and return tomorrow”.

After they retreated, the container on which they led the protest was set on fire.

Earlier on Tuesday, pol­ice and Frontier Consta­bulary initiated a massive operation after 8pm to drive protesters back from Express Chowk, a few metres from D-Chowk, where PTI intended to hold its protest.

There were also reports of widespread arrests.

Talking to reporters after clearing the Red Zone, Information Minister Ata Tarar alleged the PTI had planned to attack parliament as well.

Day of clashes

Throughout Tuesday, PTI supporters faced off with security personnel across the federal capital.

Over 60 people were injured during the clashes at different localities, as both sides used tear gas and rubber bullets.

The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) confirmed the death of two civilians and injuries to around 60 persons, including security personnel.

At least three injured policemen and ten civilians were also shifted to Polyclinic for treatment.