The protest was against the Nato attacks on the Pakistani post in Mohmand Agency which left 24 soldiers dead. The protesters burnt American flags and Barack Obama’s effigy. They also torched 35 motorcycles, five cars and a rickshaw.
During the tail end of this charged rally, unknown persons opened fire on the crowd causing a riot in the area. Express news correspondent reported that the law enforcement agencies were unable to control the situation, as firing erupted from two sides of the Chowrangi.
Security forces cordoned off the area and fired teargas shells to disperse the mob.
Due to the violence that continued for two hours, shops in the area were shut down and there was a massive traffic jam on the MA Jinnah Road.
The injured have been shifted to a local hospital.
The government has announced compensation for the victims’ families.
Sindh Home Minster Manzoor Wassan said that “violence on the first of Muharram was condemnable.”
