Pakistan’s supreme court has said the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan was illegal and ordered his release from custody, according to broadcasters in the country.

Khan, who is also a cricket icon in Pakistan, was arrested on Wednesday as he faced corruption charges.

At least five people died and hundreds were detained as Mr Khan’s supporters were involved in violent protests over the former leader’s arrest on Wednesday.

Pakistan’s chief justice told Mr Khan today that he wants him to condemn the disorder, broadcaster Geo TV has said.

In reference to the violent protests, Mr Khan said he had “no idea” what happened in the country after his arrest, ARY News in the country reports.

The former prime minister also told the court he had been “kidnapped from Islamabad High Court” and “hit with sticks”.