Report — 3 July 2017

APPLA Jhang chapter flags law-and-order threats; strike continues to July 8

Summary

In Jhang, APPLA leaders urged action against criminal groups allegedly extorting loom owners, vandalizing equipment, and assaulting workers. They warned that numerous factories had shut down for lack of reliable police protection and announced the continuation of a strike until July 8 if security conditions did not improve.

Context & claims

Office-bearers said extortion and targeted harassment were raising operating risks and costs, forcing owners to idle units. They asked district administration for visible deterrence, expedited FIRs, and regular patrols in industrial lanes to secure shift changes and cash wage runs.

Implications for APPLA

• Establish a law-and-order desk to collate incidents, track FIRs, and liaise with district police.
• Publish a member safety toolkit: secure payroll practices, CCTV minimums, and rapid-response contacts.