Police fire tear gas as thousands supporting former prime minister Khan arrive near capital

Associated Press

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Authorities say police are firing tear gas canisters at supporters of Pakistan’s imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. They have started reaching and gathering near the capital after marching from the restive northwest to demand his release. Monday’s development comes shortly after Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko arrived in Islamabad for a three-day visit. Authorities say at least one police officer was killed and several officers and demonstrators were injured in clashes. The marchers, who began their journey on Sunday, appeared determined to enter Islamabad, where the lockdown has disrupted daily life. Khan, who has been in jail for over a year and faces more than 150 criminal cases, remains popular.