Karachi violence: 13 killed in Malir shootout

Pakistani policemen stand guard in a troubled neighbourhood after fresh wave of violence in Karachi on July 22, 2011. PHOTO: AFP

KARACHI: Sindh Home Minister Manzoor Wasan claims that situation in Malir and Landhi is under control after at least 13 people were shot dead and over 10 injured in a day of fresh violence in Karachi.
Wasan was talking to media after briefing President Asif Ali Zardari on the law and order situation in the city. The president had called an emergency meeting with Wasan to discuss the latest wave of violence,
Earlier in the day, all businesses and shops shut down after a shootout between two groups took place in the Khokarpar area of Malir.
Express 24/7 correspondent Sabin Agha reported that the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) strongly protested the incident on the floor of the Sindh Assembly and has claimed that four party workers were killed in the incident.
MQM leader Sheikh Afzal has alleged that the party had contacted the police, but had been informed that they did not have orders to enter the area.
Citizens Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) chief Ahmed Chinoy said the situation in the city was under control and law enforcement agencies are trying their best to maintain peace.
MQM demands action against target killers
Newly nominated opposition leader in Sindh Assembly Raza Haroon demanded the government take action against target killers in Karachi.
Speaking to the media after the MQM staged a walkout from Sindh Assembly, Haroon claimed MQM workers being targeted in Karachi and alleged that some people in the government were giving protection to the killers.
He said the government has yet to take action and arrest those involved in today’s incident.