Karachi: Three people, including an eight-year-old girl and a senior citizen, were killed during Independence Day celebrations in Karachi due to reckless aerial firing, while over 60 others sustained gunshot injuries, local media reported.
The incidents occurred across multiple areas of the city. In Azizabad Block-8, an eight-year-old girl was struck by a stray bullet and died before reaching the hospital, according to Dunya News. In Korangi, a man named Stephen was also killed by a stray bullet while on his way. Another death linked to celebratory firing was reported from a separate location.
Rescue sources said that as the clock struck midnight, gunfire and fireworks erupted throughout the city, resulting in dozens of injuries. Geo News cited officials reporting that at least 64 people were admitted to private and government hospitals with gunshot wounds, several in critical condition.
Authorities strongly condemned celebratory firing as dangerous and irresponsible and urged citizens to mark Independence Day safely. Police launched citywide operations, arresting 20 suspects and seizing weapons and ammunition.
Incidents of aerial gunfire were reported in areas including Liaquatabad, Baldia, Korangi, Keamari, Lyari, Akhtar Colony, Mehmoodabad, Jackson, Orangi Town, Paposh Nagar, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Sharifabad, Zaman Town, and Landhi.
In separate cases, five individuals were shot dead while trying to prevent robberies, while others were killed by stray bullets or gunfire from above.
Investigations are ongoing, and police have vowed to take strict action against those responsible. Law enforcement continues to conduct raids to restore order in the city.
