Pakistan: As of May 10, violent protests underway in urban centers nationwide following arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan May 9 /update 4

Event

Violent and disruptive protests denouncing the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan continue across Pakistan as of May 10, with a few thousand supporters gathering for daily rallies in major cities. Khan was detained May 9 in a corruption case. His party, the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) has called for nationwide protests and a one-day strike May 10, prompting the precautionary closure of most educational institutions. Additional business and school closures are possible in the coming days.

Authorities are boosting security deployment nationwide, as well as curbing public assembly and suspending mobile internet services. Local media claims access to social media and messaging platforms is also restricted in some cities like Islamabad and Lahore. Security forces have used batons, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse protesters, mainly to prevent or control arson, vandalism, and/or forcible entry targeting military sites. PTI claims at least four members have died in police action, while dozens have sustained injuries or faced detention. Activists will almost certainly defy any security restrictions to hold further protests, prompting mass arrests and altercations with security personnel. Business operations and travel may face significant disruptions if serious and/or widespread violence breaks out in the coming days.

Civil Unrest
Indefinite protests are occurring or are planned in several cities like Faisalabad, Hyderabad, Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, Quetta, and Rawalpindi. Announced protest sites include the Police Lines Headquarters in the H-11 area of Islamabad, the Millenium Mall in Karachi, Liberty Chowk in Lahore, Nawa Shehar Chowk in Multan, Bala Hisar Fort in Peshawar, and the Saddar area of Rawalpindi.

Activists typically hold sit-ins, marches, and/or road blockades at or near government buildings, military installations, public squares, press clubs, railway stations, and along major roadways connecting cities. Large turnouts are likely at events near Khan's Zaman Park residence in Lahore, PTI headquarters in cities like Karachi's Insaf House, as well as near court buildings in Islamabad. Arson and vandalism of public property and vehicles, and shutdown strikes cannot be ruled out.

Localized transport disruptions and a heavy police presence are likely near any large demonstrations that may materialize. Protests could turn violent quickly; security forces are usually quick to resort to the use of force to disperse unruly gatherings. Businesses in areas experiencing violent protests and/or heightened security measures could close temporarily as a precaution. Ground shipping disruptions are likely if prolonged blockades affect arterial routes.

Security Measures
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture, mainly in Islamabad and other cities, until protests abate. The tightest security measures such as personnel and vehicle checks, as well as entry restrictions, are likely near sensitive government buildings, military facilities, and diplomatic offices. Section 144 orders prohibiting unauthorized public gatherings of over four people, and the carriage of arms in public, are active across Balochistan and Punjab provinces, as well as most urban centers. Police have suspended power supply to the vicinity of Khan's residence in Lahore to disperse crowds; similar measures causing water and power outages cannot be ruled out at or near other protest sites. Enhanced measures including curfews and the expansion of telecommunication curbs are possible at short notice.

Official Advisories
Since May 9, several countries such as Canada, and the UK, and the US are cautioning their citizens in Pakistan to avoid demonstrations. However, travel risk assessments remain unchanged at moderate to high levels.

Context

Khan faces over 100 lawsuits, mainly over alleged corruption during his prime ministerial term, as well as purported hate speech and violence during antigovernment rallies by his PTI party. PTI supporters allege his arrest by paramilitary forces is unlawful and an act of persecution by the country's political and military establishments. Demonstrations are likely to escalate further if Khan is in prolonged detention without bail, or faces unfavourable court verdicts in pending cases that threaten his participation in future elections.

Advice

Avoid all protests and roadblocks due to possible violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Confirm business appointments, deliveries, transport reservations, and road status, especially if operating in cities. Plan for potential utility outages if near major protest sites; stockpile drinking water and ensure generators are functional. Allow additional travel time in downtown areas in the coming days; exercise caution near government buildings and military installations and all concentrations of security forces. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks, especially in cities. Monitor trusted local media for updates on protest details, as organizers may announce or modify them at short notice. Heed all security and traffic advisories.