Pakistani police fired tear gas to block supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan from entering Islamabad during a protest demanding his release.

Thousands of marchers defied a lockdown and a ban on rallies, clashing with police, leaving one officer dead and others injured.

Protesters removed barricades to continue their march, led by Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi.

The government, citing security concerns, suspended mobile services and arrested over 4,000 PTI supporters.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned of severe measures if protesters entered the capital, CNN has reported.

Khan, popular despite over 150 criminal cases, remains imprisoned, with authorities stating only courts can order his release.

Written by B.C. Begley