2 dead, over 40 vehicles torched in Karachi violence

The number of deceased in the Karachi violence has risen to two on Wednesday, following the armed clashed that erupted outside Malir Bar, where two groups entered into gun battle in reaction to the manhandling of MQM leader today and former Law Minister Sher Afgan Niazi Khan yesterday.

Karachi, Apr 9 : The number of deceased in the Karachi violence has risen to two on Wednesday, following the armed clashed that erupted outside Malir Bar, where two groups entered into gun battle in reaction to the manhandling of MQM leader today and former Law Minister Sher Afgan Niazi Khan yesterday.

At least seven people were injured including a child, who was brought to the Civil Hospital, according to media reports.

At least 40 vehicles have been torched around the city. A building at the Tahir Plaza at MA Jinnah Road with lawyers' offices was also torched in the recent clashes. No fatalities were reported from the plaza.

The building of Malir Bar Association also has been gutted with intense firing there. Heavy contingents of police arrived on the spot.

The angry people have blocked MA Jinnah Road, after which the massive traffic jams are being observed around the area, The News reported.

Meanwhile, MQM chief Altaf Hussain has condemned what he described as firing by the rangers and police on lawyers and others who were staging a peaceful protest outside City Court here.

"The rangers must desist from opening fire or else they will not be in a position to make any kinds of appeals later," he warned.

In a statement, Altaf Hussain said the rangers were silent spectators on May 12 in Karachi when bloodshed was being witnessed in the streets of the city.

Now when lawyers were staging a peaceful protest the rangers opened fire on them and this incident cannot be condemned more, he added.

Altaf Hussain said firing at peaceful protestors must be stopped at once or else the citizens will not be able to hold back their sentiments and then they (law enforcing agencies) will not have chance to make any kinds of appeals.

ANI