Over 100 arrested in Karachi Police-protester clash

KARACHI: Clashes broke out between protesters and police in various areas of Karachi, resulting in the arrest of hundreds, including women, for violating Section 144, which was imposed a day earlier.

Protests were held at many places in Karachi including Karachi Press Club and Teen Talwar in Clifton. TV footage shows police baton-charging protesters and making arrests.

The ‘ Sindh Rawadari March’ participants clashed with police outside the press club after violating Section 144, which bans gatherings of more than five people across the city.

Police officials said that more than 100 protesters from different groups were arrested from different areas including Karachi Press Club, Metropole Hotel and outside Jinnah Hospital.

During the clashes, four police personnel were injured and shifted to the hospital.

Speaking to reporters, South Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Syed Asad Raza confirmed that “at least 20 people, including women, have been detained so far.”

Additional police force has been deployed on all routes leading to the Press Club.

In a separate encounter near the Governor’s House, police fired teargas shells at protesters from a religious outfit, who were retaliating at the KPC, forcing them to move their rally to the Metropole Hotel.

Amid tear gas, protesters pelted stones at riot police, injuring two officers, and allegedly set fire to a police van.

Additionally, at least 27 protesters, including women, were arrested near Three Swords in Clifton.

Sindh Home Minister Zia Lanjar announced that police had detained “some protesters” for violating Section 144, which was imposed by the Karachi Commissioner.

He warned of strict action against those who “took the law into their own hands”.

The minister also confirmed that an investigation has been launched into the alleged ‘harassment’ of journalists by law enforcement agencies at the Karachi Press Club, promising action against those responsible.