Imran Khan Arrested in Seven New Cases Linked to PTI Protests

Former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding chairman Imran Khan has been arrested in connection with seven new cases related to recent PTI protests.

Khan, who has been in Adiala Jail for months, was presented before an anti-terrorism court (ATC) judge on the completion of his six-day physical remand in a separate case tied to the party’s September 28 protest in Rawalpindi.

No Remand Extension Requested

During the hearing, the prosecution team chose not to seek an extension of Khan’s physical remand in the existing case. Registered at the New Town police station, this case accuses Khan of issuing a call for demonstrations that allegedly led to violent incidents in Rawalpindi.

Arrest in Fresh Cases

As the hearing progressed, Rawalpindi police arrested Khan in connection with new cases stemming from PTI protests held on October 5 and November 24, as well as another case linked to the September 28 demonstration.

The prosecution, however, did not request physical custody of Khan for the fresh cases. Consequently, ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah sent Khan on judicial remand in all the cases, including the new ones.

Violent Protests and Loss of Lives

The new cases against Khan allege that his calls for protests incited violence. Notably, at least three Rangers personnel and two police officers were martyred in clashes with PTI protesters during the November demonstrations. PTI has claimed that around 20 of its members were also killed in the unrest.

Crackdown at D-Chowk

PTI’s November protest ended abruptly after a late-night crackdown by authorities at Islamabad’s D-Chowk. The crackdown led to over 1,000 arrests, including more than three dozen Afghan nationals. Law enforcement also recovered tear gas canisters and other ammunition during the operation.

The cases against Khan add to the growing legal challenges he faces, as political tensions remain high amid his party’s ongoing protests and allegations of state repression.