May 9 riots

Following the arrest of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, from the grounds of the Islamabad High Court, nationwide demonstrations held by PTI's supporters descended into violent riots on 9 May 2023. According to the government, incidents of vandalism and arson resulted in Rs. 2.5 billion (US$8.9 million) worth of damage inflicted to government and military facilities by PTI workers and members of the public. As the protests descended into violence and chaos and protestors began attacking law enforcement officers and public buildings, the government responded with a cellular service and internet blockade and a crackdown against the rioters, PTI leaders, workers, and supporters, as well as those perceived to be allied to the party's cause within the media and legal fraternity. Trials of civilians within military courts were also initiated and are being challenged in the country's Supreme Court. The government also accused former Inter-Services Intelligence director Lt Gen Faiz Hameed of planning the riots in collaboration with Imran Khan.