KARACHI: Three people, including a senior citizen and an eight-year-old girl, lost their lives in Karachi aerial firing on Independence Day during the 78th Independence Day celebrations, rescue officials confirmed on Thursday. At least 75 others sustained gunshot injuries in citywide incidents of celebratory gunfire.
Young Girl and Senior Citizen Among Victims
Rescue sources said the young girl was struck by a stray bullet in Azizabad. In a separate incident, a man identified as Stephen was killed in Korangi. Another senior citizen also succumbed to injuries caused by stray bullets in the city.
The victims were rushed to nearby hospitals but could not survive. Authorities say the tragedies underline the deadly consequences of indiscriminate firing during festivities.
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Gunfire Reported Across the City
Police said aerial firing was reported from multiple neighbourhoods, including Liaquatabad, Korangi, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town and Paposh Nagar.
Similar incidents occurred in Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Zaman Town and Landhi. Many residents reported hearing gunshots late into the night as celebrations turned dangerous.
Dozens Injured in Reckless Celebrations
Rescue officials confirmed dozens of people suffered injuries from stray bullets. The injured were taken to Civil Hospital, Jinnah Hospital, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, and private medical facilities in Gulistan-e-Jauhar and other areas.
Medical staff worked through the night to treat victims, some of whom remain in critical condition.
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Police Launch Crackdown on Offenders
Law enforcement agencies arrested around 33 suspects from Mominabad, Liaquatabad, Paposh Nagar, Samanabad, Orangi Town and Keamari. Police recovered modern firearms and ammunition from those taken into custody.
Officials said cases have been registered against the detained suspects and investigations are under way to trace more individuals involved in the incidents.
Authorities Condemn Dangerous Tradition
Calling the practice “reckless and dangerous,” authorities have strongly urged citizens to celebrate Independence Day in safer ways. Police warned that strict action will be taken against anyone caught firing weapons in public.
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“We are committed to ensuring such tragedies are not repeated. People must understand that a single bullet fired into the air can destroy a family’s future,” a senior police officer said.
Annual Pattern of Tragedy
Despite repeated warnings, Karachi continues to witness fatalities and injuries from celebratory firing every Independence Day.
In 2024, at least 95 people sustained injuries in similar incidents across the city, while another 80 were hurt in 2023. Officials say the figures highlight the urgent need for stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
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Public Urged to Report Offenders
Police have appealed to residents to immediately report incidents of aerial firing through emergency helplines. They assured that every complaint will be acted upon and offenders prosecuted under the law.
Authorities say community cooperation is essential to ending the dangerous custom, which turns a day of joy into one of mourning for many families.
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A Grim Reminder on a Day of Celebration
While the rest of the country marked the 78th Independence Day with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, and patriotic songs, parts of Karachi witnessed grief and loss. The deaths of a child, a senior citizen, and another resident serve as a stark reminder that irresponsible celebrations can have irreversible consequences.
Officials emphasised that true patriotism lies in celebrating responsibly and protecting the lives of fellow citizens.
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