Pakistan Independence Day turns fatal as three killed, several injured in aerial firing in Karachi
Police have arrested over 20 suspects and seized modern firearms and ammunition. Authorities said investigations are ongoing, and strict action will be taken against those involved in aerial firing.
PTC News Desk: Three people—including a senior citizen and an eight-year-old girl—lost their lives in Karachi during Independence Day celebrations due to “reckless” aerial firing, Pakistan’s Geo News reported on Thursday. Rescue officials said at least 64 others suffered gunshot wounds in separate incidents across the city.
According to local media, the young girl was hit by a bullet in Azizabad, while a man named Stephen was killed in Korangi.
Police confirmed that aerial firing was reported from several areas, including Liaquatabad, Korangi, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, and Paposh Nagar, with additional incidents in Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Zaman Town, and Landhi.
Separately, five people were killed while trying to foil robbery attempts, and others died from stray bullets or celebratory gunfire.
Suspects Arrested, Weapons Seized
The injured were taken to Civil, Jinnah, and Abbasi Shaheed hospitals, as well as private facilities in Gulistan-e-Jauhar and other areas. Police have arrested over 20 suspects and seized modern firearms and ammunition. Authorities said investigations are ongoing, and strict action will be taken against those involved in aerial firing.
Such tragedies have repeatedly marred celebrations in Karachi. Earlier this year, at least 42 people, including five women, were killed and 233 injured in firing incidents, according to ARY News. Geo News also reported that 95 people were injured in celebratory gunfire in 2024 and 80 in 2023.