Aerial firing during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Karachi left 26 people injured, according to officials on Wednesday. Victims were rushed to various hospitals across the city after being struck by stray bullets.
Section 144 Imposed in Karachi
Ahead of the celebrations, the Karachi Commissioner issued a notification enforcing Section 144 for 48 hours, starting December 31, in an attempt to curb aerial firing and fireworks. However, despite these measures, incidents of celebratory gunfire occurred.
Tragic Start to 2024
The city witnessed a grim start to the new year as an infant girl lost her life, and 32 others were injured during aerial firing on New Year’s Eve. Authorities arrested and booked 75 suspects in connection with these incidents.
Details of Injuries and Casualties
The injuries were caused by stray bullets, with victims brought to multiple hospitals, including Civil Hospital, Jinnah Hospital, and Abbasi Shaheed Hospital.
- Civil Hospital: Six injured individuals, aged between 18 and 55, from areas like Lyari, Denso Market, and Nishtar Road.
- Jinnah Hospital: Nine victims, ranging from an 11-year-old boy to a 50-year-old woman, from areas such as Shah Faisal Colony, Landhi, and Malir.
- Abbasi Shaheed Hospital: Eleven casualties, including a 12-year-old boy and teenagers from Liaquatabad, Manghopir, and North Nazimabad.
Investigations Underway
The Karachi Police and Edhi Foundation confirmed that investigations are ongoing. Despite warnings and legal actions, the persistence of aerial firing highlights the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness to prevent such tragedies during celebrations.
