KARACHI (The Thursday Times) — Law enforcement sources say six people were killed and at least 20 injured after disruptive elements allegedly present within an otherwise peaceful protest outside the US Consulate in Karachi resorted to vandalism, triggering a violent turn in the gathering.
The same sources said some of the alleged miscreants were found in possession of weapons during the incident. It was not immediately clear what types of weapons were recovered or whether any arrests were made at the scene.
In response, the government has constituted a high-level Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to investigate the incident, collect evidence, review CCTV footage and record witness statements to determine responsibility, according to officials.
Authorities have reiterated that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right, while stressing that law-abiding demonstrations are continuing and that those involved in violence and vandalism will be identified through the investigation.
