Karachi police have registered three terrorism cases against “unknown persons” after violent protests near the US consulate on March 1 left 11 people dead and at least 30 others injured.

 

The unrest followed demonstrations over the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader. Protesters reportedly entered the outer perimeter of the US consulate on Mai Kolachi Road, but were pushed back by authorities.

 

A senior official said that the first of the three First Information Reports (FIRs) was filed against “unidentified 150-200 protesters” involved in vandalising the consulate building, opening fire, and committing arson.

 

The second FIR targets unknown individuals responsible for setting a police post near the consulate on fire and committing further acts of arson.

 

The third FIR addresses violence on Native Jetty Bridge, where “unknown armed men” allegedly opened fire, injuring two women and others, the official added.

 

All three FIRs have been lodged under sections 302 (premeditated murder), 324 (attempted murder), and other provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code, along with Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act. No arrests have been made so far.

 

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Javed Alam Odho took action against several police officials over alleged negligence, maladministration, and losses to human life and property on March 1.

 

A statement issued by the Central Police Office said the IGP, after an initial inquiry, recommended the removal and suspension of the Keamari Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). The Keamari Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and Station House Officer (SHOs) of Docks, SITE-B, KPT, and Jackson police stations, along with the in-charge of the foreign security cell, were also suspended.

 

A six-member high-level committee has been formed to conduct a “transparent inquiry” into the incident. The committee is headed by the Additional Inspector General of Police (IG) of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and includes Deputy Inspector General (DIGs) of Special Branch and Headquarters, SSP Investigation CTD, and two Assistant IGs.

 

“The committee has been directed to submit a detailed report containing all facts about the incident within seven days,” the statement said.

 

The inquiry team is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the protests and violence near the US consulate, as authorities continue to monitor developments in the area.