KARACHI: The Sindh government has issued a final warning to the protesters, urging them to shift their sit-ins to a designated location or face strict action. Sindh Home Minister Zia Lanjar stated, “The government will enforce its writ under all circumstances […] unrest in the city cannot be allowed.”
Ongoing Protests
Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) protesters have been staging sit-ins at multiple locations in Karachi for the past nine days. The minister revealed that numerous negotiations were held with the protesters but failed to yield any resolution.
He highlighted the challenges faced by citizens due to road closures and stressed that the government cannot tolerate prolonged inconvenience.
Police Action
Yesterday, police launched a crackdown on the central sit-in at Numaish Chowrangi, where clashes broke out. Police used batons and tear gas to disperse the protesters. During the confrontation, six motorcycles, a police post, and a car were set ablaze.
Nineteen individuals were arrested, and cases were filed under terrorism, attempted murder, and other charges.
Road Closures
Key roads across Karachi remain blocked due to the protests, including the route from Abbas Town to Sohrab Goth, Kamran Chowrangi to Mosamiyat, and University Road. Citizens are experiencing significant disruptions, including difficulty accessing hospitals and the airport.
Government’s Offer
The Sindh government has proposed allowing the protesters to demonstrate at a designated location to restore normalcy. The home minister urged protesters to contact the Karachi police chief or Commissioner Karachi to resolve the issue amicably.
Lanjar reiterated that the government will take necessary action if public inconvenience continues. He also emphasized that blocking roads and creating chaos is unacceptable.
