A vehicle carrying a large cache of slings intended for PTI long march was seized in Peshawar on September 23, according to police sources.
Police sources said law enforcement agencies intercepted the vehicle and took the driver into custody. The protest material was also destroyed after the vehicle was seized.
The incident has raised questions over preparations for the PTI’s planned protest and the nature of the material being transported for the demonstration.
PTI protests in the past have also been accompanied by reports of clashes, property damage and law-and-order concerns. However, the latest allegations regarding the seized slings have been attributed to police sources.
On the other hand, Traffic movement on several major highways has been suspended by the Motorway Police in connection with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march.
According to sources, the M-1 Motorway has been closed to all types of traffic in both directions from the Islamabad Toll Plaza to the Chachh Interchange until further orders. The Islamabad Toll Plaza, Fateh Jang/Tarnol, Sangjani/AWT, Brahma Bahter, Burhan, Hazara Motorway, Ghazi and Chachh interchanges on the M-1 will also remain closed.
Similarly, the M-14 Motorway has been closed in both directions from Hakla to Kundal for all traffic. The Hakla, Fateh Jang, Pindi Gheb, Khairpur, Tarap, Daud Khel, Kot Belian, Isa Khel and Kundal interchanges will also remain closed until further orders.
According to sources, the GT Road (N-5) has also been closed to traffic in both directions at Attock Khurd.
The Motorway Police had announced a day earlier that the M-1, M-14 and other designated routes would be closed from Wednesday night. The closures will remain in place until further orders.
Bus terminals may close after 8 pm
Transport operators in the twin cities have reportedly informed passengers that bus terminals may close at different times after 8pm on Wednesday because of the restrictions on major routes.
Passengers travelling from Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been advised to confirm their bus schedules with transport companies before leaving for the terminals, particularly for services operating towards Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Several operators have reportedly cancelled evening departures because of uncertainty surrounding access to the motorways.
Travellers advised to check bus schedules
With motorway closures coinciding with increased security arrangements around Islamabad, passengers have been advised to contact their respective transport companies before heading to bus terminals.
Those planning to travel on Wednesday evening should also allow additional time and remain prepared for possible route changes or cancellations.
The restrictions are part of broader security arrangements ahead of the PTI’s planned September 27 long march towards Islamabad.
