“Confirmed: Live metrics show WhatsApp backends have been restricted in #Pakistan corroborating reports of media sharing issues; the measure comes as authorities tighten security ahead of protests planned by opposition party PTI calling for the release of former PM Imran Khan,” NetBlocks said.

A graphic posted by NetBlocks showed WhatsApp’s reachability as 0% on most internet service providers.

However, NetBlocks said that WhatsApp is still reachable on 50% servers connected to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited.

The disruptions come as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf gears up for a protest in Islamabad, demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from jail.

The suspension of Wi-Fi services would be determined based on conditions, with restrictions only being imposed in areas where security concerns exist, n interior ministry spokesperson said on Saturday.

“Mobile data and WiFi service will be suspended only in areas of security concerns,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “Internet and mobile services will continue to operate as usual in the rest of the country.”