KARACHI – What should have been a night of patriotic pride turned into one of horror and heartbreak, as celebratory firing ripped through Karachi’s skies on Independence Day, claiming three lives — including an eight-year-old girl — and leaving at least 64 others wounded.
Rescue officials confirmed the tragedies unfolded across multiple neighbourhoods as bullets rained down during the city’s festivities. The young girl, full of joy for the nation’s birthday, was fatally struck by a stray round in Azizabad. In another harrowing incident, a man identified as Stephen lost his life in Korangi. An old-age citizen also succumbed to injuries in what police are calling one of the most reckless nights of firing in recent memory.
Authorities reported that Karachi’s streets became dangerous flashpoints, with incidents of aerial firing reported in Liaquatabad, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, and Paposh Nagar. Additional reports poured in from Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Zaman Town, and Landhi.
Victims — some critically wounded — were rushed to Civil Hospital, Jinnah Hospital, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, and various private clinics in Gulistan-e-Jauhar and other parts of Karachi.
In an overnight crackdown, police arrested more than 20 suspects from hotspots including Mominabad, Liaquatabad, Paposh Nagar, Samanabad, and Keamari. Officers seized modern firearms and ammunition from those in custody, vowing severe punishment for anyone involved in the reckless firing.
Despite repeated public warnings, Karachi continues to grapple with the deadly tradition of celebratory gunfire. Last year, 95 people were injured in similar incidents; the year before, 80 were hurt.
As Pakistan marked its 78th Independence Day with patriotic zeal, the shadow of loss once again loomed large. Authorities have urged citizens to abandon the dangerous practice and celebrate without turning the city’s skyline into a firing range.