Pakistan seizes containers to block Islamabad protest routes

Pakistan authorities are seizing shipping containers and vehicles to prevent supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan from reaching the capital, Islamabad. This strategy has caused a significant cargo buildup at the port of Karachi, located approximately 1,400 kilometres from the capital.

Truck drivers are refusing to transport goods north toward the Punjab province due to fears that police will seize their vehicles and containers to create barricades. These containers, often filled with sand and welded together, are being positioned at key entry points to Islamabad in anticipation of an October 4 march organized by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party to demand Khan’s release.

Authorities reportedly requisitioned more than 2,000 vehicles in September. The crackdown comes as the PTI remains under state scrutiny following the 2023 ousting and imprisonment of the former cricket star. While most of Khan’s convictions have been suspended or overturned, his legal appeals are still pending.