- DSP Fateh Sangi, two policemen killed in gun attack in Gulshan-e-Hadeed area during routine patrol
- Taliban spokesman Khuransani claims responsibility for attack
At least three policemen, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP), were killed on Friday when armed attackers opened fire on their vehicle in Karachi’s Gulshan-i-Hadeed area.
Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan spokesperson Muhammad Khurasani claimed responsibility for the attack in an email sent to journalists.
Police sources said that Bin Qasim Deputy Superintendent Police (DSP) Fateh Mohammad Sangi was on a routine patrol with his driver, constable Farooq, and a guard, constable Nazeer, when four men riding two motorcycles opened fire on their vehicle, severely injuring the three men. The assailants fled after attacking the vehicle.
Police and emergency teams reached the spot, situated near Bacha Khan Chowk in Gulshan-i-Hadeed Phase-I area, and moved the injured to hospital where all three succumbed to their wounds during treatment. Investigative teams recovered 22 bullet casings from the crime scene.
The DSP was the brother of former Director Inspector General (DIG) Sachal Sangi and was involved in recent operations carried out in the area, including one that was conducted in Gulshan-i-Hadeed by SSP Malir Rao Anwar.
Speaking to reporters after the attack, Sindh Inspector General Ghulam Hyder Jamali said: “We believe this attack to be an organised terrorist strategy, and we are investigating this in great depth.”
Karachi, the largest metropolitan city of Pakistan, is riddled with targeted killings, gang wars, kidnappings for ransom, extortion and terrorism.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif strongly condemned the murder of the three policemen and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. He also ordered a thorough inquiry into the killings.
The premier further said resorting peace in Karachi is the topmost priority of the government and all steps necessary are being taken in this regard.