Supporters seeking the release of imprisoned Pakistani former Prime Minister Imran Khan broke through a ring of shipping containers blocking off the capital on Tuesday, and battled security forces despite a government threat to respond with gunfire.

The demonstrations were sparked by demands for Khan’s release from jail and the resignation of the federal government over what they call rigged general elections this year.

Four paramilitary soldiers died during violent protests near Pakistan's parliament as demonstrators demanded the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif blamed the protesters for the deaths,