Pakistan’s Supreme Court orders release of former PM Imran Khan, after his arrest sparks violence

By MUNIR AHMED and RIAZAT BUTT
Associated Press

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose arrest earlier this week sparked a wave of violence across the country by his supporters. For this nation accustomed to military takeovers, political crises and violence, the turmoil is unprecedented. Clashes with police first erupted after Khan’s dramatic arrest on Tuesday when he appeared in an Islamabad court to face graft charges. At least 10 people have been killed in the violence and dozens were injured, along with more than 200 police officers. Pakistan’s chief justice, while ordering Khan’s release, urged the former premier to appeal to his supporters to remain peaceful.