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.

Lockdown-like situation prevailed in Pakistan's capital Islamabad after heavy security forces deployed and key roads were blocked ahead of PTI's 'break the shackles of slavery' protest. The authorities suspended mobile and internet services in certain areas in Islamabad.

Pakistan says it is suspending mobile and internet services “in areas with security concerns” as supporters of imprisoned former premier Imran Khan gear up for a protest in the capital.