What should have been a jubilant celebration of Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day turned tragic in Karachi, as reckless aerial firing claimed three lives and left more than 60 others injured across the city.
A Deadly Tradition
- Victims included an 8-year-old girl struck by a stray bullet in Azizabad and a senior citizen killed in Korangi.
- A third victim, identified as Stephen, also succumbed to gunfire injuries.
- At least 64 people were wounded in incidents reported from multiple neighborhoods including Liaquatabad, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, and Orangi Town.
Authorities Respond
- Police have launched investigations and arrested over 20 suspects, recovering firearms and ammunition.
- Officials condemned the practice, calling it “reckless and dangerous,” and urged citizens to celebrate responsibly.
- Hospitals across Karachi were overwhelmed with gunshot victims, many of whom were bystanders caught in the chaos.
A Pattern of Violence
- Karachi has seen a disturbing rise in gun-related incidents. In January alone, 42 people were killed and 233 injured due to shootings, many linked to aerial firing and robbery resistance.
- Despite repeated warnings, celebratory gunfire remains a persistent threat during national events.
