Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has stepped up preparations for its September 27 long march to Islamabad. A video has also surfaced showing several people in a room allegedly preparing for a possible confrontation with the police during the protest. The video shows individuals preparing slingshots, while a large number of sacks containing marbles can also be seen inside the room. Some individuals are also seen practicing the use of masks to protect themselves from teargas shelling.
The identities of the people in the video and the location where it was recorded could not be independently verified. However, sources claim the activities are part of preparations for the September 27 march. According to sources, PTI plans to bring workers from different areas to Islamabad and has been arranging various equipment. Sources further claim that approximately 3,500 masks, 1,500 teargas shells, 5,000 slingshots, and 700 petrol bombs have allegedly been prepared, along with plans to carry stones and marbles.
Sources claim plans are also underway to bring around 2,000 to 3,000 workers to Islamabad before September 27. Camps have reportedly been established in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts bordering Punjab to facilitate worker movement. PTI has termed the reports baseless and fabricated, stating that false news is being spread as part of a conspiracy.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has distanced himself and the party from the video, stating that the individuals seen in it have no association with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. Afridi maintained that PTI's protest would remain peaceful and be conducted within the limits of the Constitution and law. He said anyone violating the law should face legal action, adding that baseless reports bearing no connection to reality are being circulated. The September 27 long march will be led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi.