The ex-cricketer denies any wrongdoing and has called on supporters to “stand up for your country”.
Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former prime minister, has called for protests after he was sentenced to three years in prison for illegally selling state gifts.
Police were seen surrounding his home in the eastern city of Lahore on Saturday after the verdict was handed down.
The 70-year-old former cricketer has been arrested after he was sentenced for unlawfully selling state gifts while he was prime minister between 2018 and 2022 following an inquiry conducted by the election commission.
In a video message he urged people to peacefully protest until they get their rights, namely a government of their choice through voting and “not the one like today’s occupying power.”
He was accused of misusing his position to buy and sell gifts received during visits abroad worth more than 140 million Pakistani rupees ($635,000).
“Police have arrested Imran Khan from his residence,” Mr Khan’s lawyer Intezar Panjotha said. “We are filing a
petition against the decision in (the) high court.”
Lahore’s Police Chief Bilal Siddique Kamiana confirmed the arrest and said Mr Khan was being transferred to the capital, Islamabad.
Mr Khan said his arrest was “expected” in a pre-recorded video statement posted on Twitter.
“People of Pakistan, when this video reaches you, they will have arrested me and I’ll be in jail,” he said.
“I have one request and an appeal, that you should not sit quietly at home.
“This sacrifice I’m doing is not for myself, I’m doing it for my country and for you and for your kids’ futures. If you’re not going to stand up for your country, you will be servants, and there no such a life for servants.”
Mr Khan has denied any wrongdoing and his political party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) said in a statement another appeal has already been filed to the country’s supreme court.
Legal experts say the conviction could end his chances of taking part in the national elections that have to be held before November.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said it is monitoring the situation in Pakistan closely.