Protests Erupt Across Pakistan Following Arrest of Former Prime Minister Transcript

Violence and chaos tearing through Pakistan for a second day in a row, over the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Plunging the nation of some 230 million people and its economy into crisis. At least four people confirmed dead. Dozens more injured. Police saying well over a thousand people arrested, and tonight no signs that chaos is subsiding. Protestors, supporters of Khan, a former cricket star ousted from office last year. Now a Pakistan’s most popular opposition figure, despite facing multiple corruption charges. It all started Tuesday when Khan was in court for a graft case, then suddenly arrested by paramilitary forces in connection with a different case.

First, they ousted him from power. Then they stopped him from campaigning around the country. Then they finally tried to assassinate him twice, and now they’ve arrested him.

Pakistan’s government alleging Khan gave favors to a real estate tycoon in exchange for land for a university.

Now this is worst kind of corruption, and he did this to gain personal benefits.

But Khan’s supporters say the military and the government are conspiring to keep him from returning to power.

[foreign language 00:01:21].

This supporter saying, “For Khan, we’re willing to lay down our lives.” Security Forcers kept protestors far away from a court hearing today, where Khan was ordered detained for at least another eight days, while he urges his supporters to keep up the fight.

[foreign language 00:01:36].

Khan’s lawyer saying his client gave him this message to the nation, “Even if they impose martial law, you have to stand your ground.” In cities across Pakistan, police firing, tear gas and water cannons at Khan’s supporters. The Radio Pakistan buildings set ablaze, while protestors set fires in the streets.

[foreign language 00:01:56].

This Karachi resident says, “Transportation is shut down. Students unable to get to school.” He says, “It’s total chaos across the country.” The US Embassy in Islamabad has canceled all consular appointments this week and is restricting diplomats’ travel for their own safety. The State Department now warning Americans in Pakistan to avoid large gatherings and avoid traveling within the country if they can. Tom?