Pakistan police said Wednesday they had arrested nearly 1,000 protesters who marched on the capital demanding the release of jailed ex-prime minister Imran Khan, after crowds were evicted from the city centre in a sweeping security crackdown.

By Asif Shahzad, Gibran Naiyyar Peshimam and Charlotte Greenfield ISLAMABAD (Reuters) -At least six people, including four paramilitary soldiers, were killed on Tuesday during clashes near Pakistan's parliament between security forces and protesters who are demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The crackdown brought a swift end to the protests that have gripped Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital, this week ever since thousands of people gathered in the city to demand the release of Imran Khan, the former prime minister. Mr. Khan has been in prison since last August on charges that his party claims are politically motivated.