The Islamabad High Court had ruled the protest 'unlawful', directing the government to maintain law and order without disrupting public life, especially with the Belarusian president's scheduled visit over the weekend with a high-profile delegation.

Authorities in Islamabad have sealed off routes to the Red Zone – which houses the country's executive, judicial, and legislative authorities – and deployed Rangers at key government buildings.

Pakistan suspended mobile and internet services in several areas, including the capital Islamabad, citing “security concerns” in view of anticipated protests by supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan.

Pakistan has sealed off the capital, Islamabad, ahead of a planned rally by supporters of imprisoned former premier Imran Khan. It’s the second time in as many months that authorities have imposed such measures to thwart tens of thousands of people from gathering in the city to demand Khan’s release.