Five security personnel lost their lives, and dozens, including police officers, were injured as supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan marched toward Islamabad, intensifying their protest on Tuesday. With the demonstrators pressing on, the government deployed the army to safeguard the capital.

The protest, led by Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, began on Sunday and reached Islamabad by Monday evening, where it erupted into violent clashes with security forces. On Tuesday, the protesters resumed their march toward D-Chowk, a key area near strategic government buildings, where they plan to stage a sit-in.

Local reports indicated that one police officer was fatally shot, and four paramilitary rangers were killed after being run over by a vehicle driven by protesters. The violence left at least 119 police officers injured, with two in critical condition. Protesters also torched 22 police vehicles and engaged in confrontations near Islamabad and throughout Punjab province. Several Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters also reportedly sustained injuries during the clashes.

The unrest follows Imran Khan's call for nationwide protests against what he described as a "stolen mandate" in February's general elections. Protesters, led by Bushra Bibi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, pushed forward toward the capital, dismantling barricades and blockades set up by authorities using heavy equipment.

Provincial police chief Usman Anwar confirmed the fatalities and widespread damage caused during the clashes. Security forces described the situation as tense, with demonstrators showing no signs of relenting. The government has warned of severe consequences if protesters enter Islamabad’s high-security zone.

Despite attempts by authorities to convince PTI leaders to stage their demonstration away from the city, Bushra Bibi rejected the proposal, insisting on proceeding to D-Chowk. The protest march has raised concerns about escalating violence as the demonstrators aim to challenge the current government.

Imran Khan, who has been detained at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail since last year, faces over 200 legal cases, including convictions, pending trials, and granted bails. His party, PTI, won the most seats in the February elections, despite running as independents after being denied an election symbol. Khan continues to accuse the ruling coalition of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of "stealing the mandate" to retain federal power.

As tensions rise, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned PTI of stringent measures if the protests escalate further or breach security zones in the capital. The situation remains volatile, with security forces on high alert.