Karachi’s Independence Day festivities turned deadly as celebratory aerial firing across the city claimed the lives of three people, including an eight-year-old girl and a senior citizen, and injured more than 60 others. The incidents occurred late on Wednesday night and into Thursday morning as large crowds gathered to mark the country’s 78th Independence Day.

According to police reports, the young girl was hit by a stray bullet in Azizabad, while a man identified as Stephen died in Korangi. Another fatality was reported from a separate area. Gunfire injuries were reported from multiple neighborhoods, including Liaquatabad, Korangi, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, Paposh Nagar, Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Zaman Town, and Landhi.

Hospitals across Karachi, including Civil Hospital, Jinnah Hospital, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, and several private facilities, treated victims with varying degrees of injuries. Medical teams worked through the night to provide emergency care, with some patients in critical condition.

Law enforcement agencies launched citywide operations, arresting more than 20 suspects and seizing modern firearms along with ammunition. Police have vowed strict action against those responsible, stressing that aerial firing is both illegal and life-threatening.

Officials and civic leaders condemned the acts, calling the practice reckless and irresponsible. Authorities have appealed to citizens to find safer and non-violent ways to celebrate national events.

The tragedy is part of a recurring pattern in Karachi, where similar incidents have marred public celebrations in recent years. In January this year, aerial firing killed at least 42 people and injured over 230. In August 2024, at least 95 people were injured, while 80 were wounded in 2023.

The latest incident has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of arms regulations, public awareness campaigns, and stronger community policing to prevent further loss of life during festive occasions.