Gunmen Attack Political Rally In Karachi, Killing 12

Gunmen attack political rally in Karachi, killing 12 < br />

2012-05-23 17:20:52 GMT+7 (ICT)

KARACHI, PAKISTAN (BNO NEWS) -- Gunmen attacked a political rally in the Pakistani port city of Karachi on Tuesday, killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens more, officials said on Wednesday. It was not immediately known who was behind the attack.

The incident occurred in Karachi when a group of gunmen opened fire during a political rally in which protesters demanded a separate Mohajir province. Among the twelve people confirmed killed were three women. In addition, around 35 others were reported injured, including two policemen.

The rally was announced by the Awami Tehrik and the City Alliance, an alliance of various political groups including the PML-N, People’s Aman Committee and others. The protest began peacefully but when the group approached Jodia Bazaar, the group of unidentified gunmen attacked, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Range Shaukat Ali Shah told the Geo TV.

The gun battle quickly escalated to clashes among rival groups, resulting in several shops and dozens of vehicles being set on fire in parts of Karachi, including in Jodia Bazaar, Napier Road and Denso Hall. Police said at least 40 vehicles, including a bus, 13 cars and 26 motorcycles, were torched, in addition to six shops.

Political parties have long fought for the control of Karachi, the country's largest city and considered its financial center.

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