The demonstrations were sparked by demands for Khan’s release from jail and the resignation of the federal government over what they call rigged general elections this year.

At least six people have died in protest-related violence as supporters seeking Imran Khan’s release from prison broke through barriers meant to lock down Islamabad.

Pakistani police were filmed fleeing their posts and abandoning their weapons as they were overwhelmed by thousands of protesters demanding the release of Imran Khan, the former prime minister.