Authorities have intensified security measures in Jhelum ahead of PTI’s planned long march, with dozens of party workers reportedly arrested and preparations underway to restrict movement across key bridges.
According to the report, police have continued conducting raids at the homes of PTI workers and supporters. Around 80 party workers have reportedly been arrested, while 60 people have been detained in the district jail under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order law.
The district administration has also prepared to close three bridges in Jhelum as part of measures intended to limit movement during the protest.
At Naya Pul bridge, large numbers of shipping containers have been positioned to create barriers. Soil-filled bags are reportedly being transported to the site to add weight to the containers.
Workers accompanying the containers said they had been stranded at the location for several days. They expressed concern that goods valued at millions of rupees could be damaged and complained about difficulties obtaining adequate food and accommodation while waiting.
The developments come as PTI itself reportedly considers whether to proceed with the long march as scheduled.
According to the report, the possibility of postponing the protest was discussed at a PTI leadership meeting, with a majority of participants said to have favoured delaying it.
No final decision on postponement was reported, and the accounts of arrests and detentions cited in the report were not accompanied by a detailed response from the authorities.