The police have dispersed protesting members of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following violent clashes in the city.

The TLP workers began their march from Lahore and were heading towards Islamabad while staging demonstrations in support of Palestine and Gaza.

Some schools in Islamabad were shut down earlier than usual after panic built up in the city over the potential outcome of the clash.

A senior police official, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed to Dawn.com that police action to disperse the protesters from Muridke started at 3am and lasted for six hours.

Punjab police spokesperson Mubashir Hussain confirmed to Dawn News that an SHO was killed during the clash.

Hussain said 48 law enforcement personnel were injured in the clash, 17 of whom sustained bullet wounds, while eight citizens also suffered injuries.

He said several protesters were also arrested during the demonstration.

The TLP is known for hosting violent demonstrations in the country.

It gained prominence during the 2018 general elections by defending the country's blasphemy law that calls for the death penalty for anyone who insults Islam.