A case has been registered against more than 100 Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf workers following a protest in Karachi’s Red Zone that allegedly turned violent. The First Information Report also names former MNA Haleem Adil Sheikh as one of the key individuals involved in the incident.
According to police officials, at least 24 PTI workers, including former lawmakers, were taken into custody on charges of rioting, vandalism, and violating Section 144. The FIR was filed at the Artillery Maidan police station on behalf of the state after the protest took place near Fawara Chowk.
Authorities stated that around 150 party workers gathered under Sheikh’s leadership and attempted to march toward the Karachi Press Club. Despite being informed about the ban on public gatherings in the Red Zone, protesters reportedly continued their march. Police claim the situation escalated when demonstrators became aggressive and attacked officers with sticks and stones.
In response, additional police personnel were deployed, and tear gas was used to disperse the crowd. Several individuals, including women, were detained during the operation, while others managed to escape. The clash caused panic in the area and temporarily disrupted traffic flow, affecting commuters and nearby businesses.
The protest was organized by PTI to voice opposition against the recent hike in petroleum prices, which has contributed to rising inflation across the country. Demonstrators were also heard chanting slogans against the government during the protest.
Law enforcement agencies had already increased security in key areas such as Numaish Chowrangi, Teen Talwar, and Gulistan-e-Jauhar in anticipation of further demonstrations. Officials remain on high alert to prevent similar incidents in other parts of the city.
The rise in fuel prices, linked to global oil market fluctuations, has triggered widespread concern, leading to protests and public dissatisfaction nationwide.
