Three individuals, a senior citizen and an 8-year-old girl among them, lost their lives in Karachi during Independence Day festivities due to what officials described as "reckless" aerial firing, according to Geo News.
Rescue sources confirmed that at least 64 others suffered gunshot wounds in various incidents throughout the city, according to Geo News.
A young girl was fatally struck by a bullet in Azizabad, while a man identified as Stephen lost his life in Korangi during Karachi’s Independence Day celebrations, local media reported.
Rescue teams confirmed dozens of injuries, attributing many to celebratory gunfire.
Rescue officials labeled the firing incidents as dangerous and “reckless,” urging the public to celebrate Independence Day through safer means.
The police have launched an investigation and pledged to take strict action against those involved in aerial firing.
According to a report from ARY News, Karachi saw at least 42 fatalities in January alone due to firing incidents, including five women.
Police reported that aerial firing incidents were reported in numerous areas, including Liaquatabad, Korangi, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, and Paposh Nagar. Further incidents were recorded in Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Zaman Town, and Landhi.
Five individuals were killed while attempting to thwart robbery attempts in separate incidents. Others died due to stray bullets or celebratory gunfire.
Authorities transported the injured to Civil, Jinnah, and Abbasi Shaheed hospitals, along with several private medical centers in Gulistan-e-Jauhar and surrounding areas.
Over 20 suspects have been arrested from various neighborhoods, with police recovering modern firearms and ammunition. Investigations are ongoing, and officials reiterated that those responsible for aerial firing will face strict consequences.
(With agency inputs)
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