Karachi’s Independence Day festivities turned tragic when “reckless” aerial firing claimed three lives, including an eight-year-old girl and a senior citizen, while injuring at least 64 others, according to rescue officials. The incidents occurred across multiple areas of the city, with reports of celebratory gunfire from Liaquatabad, Korangi, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, and Paposh Nagar. Additional cases were noted in Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Zaman Town, and Landhi.
The young girl was fatally struck in Azizabad, while a man named Stephen was killed in Korangi. Several victims suffered injuries from stray bullets. In separate incidents, five individuals lost their lives while attempting to foil robbery attempts.
Rescue teams transported the injured to Civil Hospital, Jinnah Hospital, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, and private clinics in Gulistan-e-Jauhar and surrounding localities.
Law enforcement agencies have detained more than 20 suspects from various locations, recovering sophisticated firearms and ammunition. Police have pledged stringent action against those responsible and confirmed that investigations are in progress.
This is not an isolated occurrence. Aerial firing has repeatedly marred celebrations in Karachi. In January alone, 42 people, including five women, were killed, and 233 others injured in shooting incidents. In 2024, at least 95 individuals were hurt during celebratory gunfire, while 80 sustained injuries in 2023.
Authorities have reiterated calls for strict enforcement and public cooperation to eliminate this dangerous practice.