The injured were taken to Civil, Jinnah, and Abbasi Shaheed hospitals. Police arrested over 20 suspects and seized modern firearms and ammunition.
Celebrations of Independence Day in Karachi took a fatal turn when careless aerial shooting left three people dead and 60 injured. A senior citizen and an 8-year-old daughter were among the deceased, who perished in different circumstances throughout the celebrations that lasted the entire night.
Police confirmed that the firing incidents erupted across multiple areas, including Liaquatabad, Korangi, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, Paposh Nagar, Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Landhi, Surjani Town, and Zaman Town.
Pakistan celebrated its 78th Independence Day on Thursday with national pride and a renewed commitment to upholding the ideals of the Pakistan Movement. The day also marked the country’s claimed victory in the “Marka-e-Haq” operation against India in May.
The injured were taken to Civil, Jinnah, and Abbasi Shaheed hospitals. Police arrested over 20 suspects and seized modern firearms and ammunition.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif led the main flag-hoisting ceremony at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad. The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in provincial headquarters. Special prayers were offered in mosques across the country, asking for peace, solidarity, and prosperity.
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In his address, Prime Minister Sharif said, “Today is not just a celebration of freedom, but a reminder of the struggle for the Two-Nation Theory.” He expressed gratitude to friendly countries for supporting Pakistan during its standoff with India.
The Prime Minister declared this year’s celebration as a tribute to the “Marka-i-Haq,” referring to events of May 10, when he said, “Pakistan emerged as a new nation.”
On the occasion, the Prime Minister announced the creation of the Army Rocket Force, calling it a major step in Pakistan’s defence strategy. He honoured the sacrifices of martyrs and praised Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Iqbal, and other leaders of the Pakistan Movement.
He also praised Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s leadership. “Future generations in India will remember this defeat,” he said. “This historic victory proved that Pakistan is fully capable of defending itself. Our nuclear capability is a deterrent, not a symbol of aggression.”
A grand ceremony at Jinnah Sports Stadium in Islamabad showcased Pakistan’s military strength and cultural heritage. President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Sharif, and Field Marshal Munir attended as chief guests.
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Ambassadors from friendly nations witnessed the event, which featured performances by a tri-services military band and contingents from Türkiye and Azerbaijan. Troops from the brotherly countries also joined the parade.
According to ARY News, at least 42 people, including five women, died in shooting incidents in Karachi in January 2025 alone. A further 233 people were injured, including five women.
Geo News reported 95 people were injured in celebratory firing incidents in 2024, while at least 80 suffered injuries in similar incidents the year before.
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