Terror Charges Filed After Sindh Culture Day Rally Clashes with Police
A first information report (FIR) has been filed under terrorism charges following violent clashes between participants of a Sindh Culture Day rally and police in Karachi. The incident occurred on Sunday as numerous rallies celebrated the occasion throughout the city.
Rally Disruption Leads to FIR
Police reportedly used tear gas on Sunday to prevent a rally from proceeding towards Karachi’s Red Zone via Sharea Faisal. According to officials, rally participants attacked police personnel, who then responded with batons and tear gas. SindhNews.com learned that 45 individuals were detained, with 12 later released.
The FIR, obtained by Dawn, names 12 individuals arrested and implicates “300-400” unidentified participants. Charges include rioting, unlawful assembly, obstructing public servants, attempted murder, and acts of terrorism under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
Inspector Abdul Majeed Abro stated that the rally, comprised of approximately 300-400 individuals on motorcycles and in cars, appeared near the Finance and Trade Centre (FTC) flyover, heading towards Saddar. Police attempted to halt the procession due to a ban on gatherings under Section 144.
Participants allegedly blocked the road, pelted stones, and opened fire. They are also accused of damaging vehicles, including an ambulance and a police mobile, and shouting “anti-state” slogans. This led to the police deployment of tear gas to disperse the crowd and prevent further damage.
South Deputy Inspector General of Police Syed Asad Raza noted that law enforcers had suggested an alternative route towards the Karachi Press Club but participants insisted on Sharea Faisal. He confirmed five policemen sustained injuries from stone pelting.
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar has ordered an investigation into the incident. Sindh Culture Day, celebrated annually on the first Sunday of December since 2009, typically involves various cultural events.
Outcome of the Clash
The registration of a terror-related FIR signifies a serious escalation following the Sindh Culture Day rally’s confrontation with authorities in Karachi, impacting public gatherings and invoking strict legal measures.