Midnight Lockdown: Islamabad Police Fortify Shifa International Hospital For Imran Khan’s Arrival | Exclusive Details

Last Updated:August 20, 2026, 11:30 PM IST

Final preparations are underway to transfer the former Pakistan Prime Minister to the hospital in Islamabad

A security personnel stands guard outside the Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad on August 20, 2026 after Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered to transfer jailed former prime minister Imran Khan to the facility. Image/AFP

A medical board comprising specialist doctors, alongside Dr. Uzma and Dr. Faisal Sultan, has concluded its examination of jailed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. Following the board’s official recommendations, final preparations are underway to transfer the former Prime Minister to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, with the move expected to take place around midnight.

Authorities have placed both locations under maximum security protocols. Sources indicate that Executive Floors E-4 and A-4 at Shifa International Hospital are being formally declared a sub-jail. Security forces have vacated specific wards and apartments, cleared surrounding zones, and banned hospital staff within the designated security perimeter from using mobile phones. Gate One of the facility has been allocated specifically for Khan’s arrival, while all other entry gates remain heavily guarded alongside newly established police checkpoints. Surrounding roads leading to the hospital have been blocked, and parking lots are being cleared to maintain complete operational control.

Inside the hospital, signal jammers have been activated, and senior department heads alongside leading specialists are on standby to receive the patient. Senior police leadership and heavy contingents of law enforcement officers are currently deployed across internal and external corridors to supervise the multi-layered security grid.

Simultaneously, security has been elevated to high alert around Adiala Jail. Police personnel have shut down nearby markets, shops, and street lights in the immediate vicinity to secure the movement route. While operational protocols are fully active on the ground, the Ministry of Interior has not yet issued a formal public notification regarding the sub-jail designation.

Key Questions Answered

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What is the current health status of Imran Khan?

Imran Khan’s health has been a subject of concern, with reports flagging anxiety, palpitations, and blood pressure issues. He is being transferred from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad for medical assessment and treatment, following recommendations from a medical board.

Will Imran Khan remain at Shifa Hospital long-term?

Imran Khan is expected to remain at Shifa International Hospital until September 16.

How will this transfer impact Pakistan’s political landscape?

The transfer of Imran Khan to Shifa International Hospital could serve as a pressure-release mechanism, offering some relief without fundamentally altering his legal or political status. This move comes amid rising political pressure around Khan and could prevent his health from becoming a new rallying point for his supporters. The Supreme Court’s order for the transfer also reflects growing pressure on Pakistan’s establishment.

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About the Author

Manoj Gupta

Group Editor, Investigations and Security Affairs, Network18

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