Forensic expert and Punjab Forensic Science Agency Director General, Dr Mohammad Ashraf Tahir Thursday (today) has said in a press conference that the government has been informed that the Baldia factory fire was a clear case of arson and not an accidental fire.
Explaining the difference, Dr Tahir said, “In arson, an accelerant like kerosene oil or petrol [is used to start a fire]. [Finding traces of an accelerant] proves that the fire was started on purpose and was not an accident.”
“We have identified this [incident] as arson for the government. That was our only job, the rest is up to the courts.”
Read more: Rehman Bhola confesses to setting Baldia factory ablaze
Around 250 factory workers were killed in the 2012 blaze that destroyed a garment factory in Karachi’s Baldia Town.
Much of the factory’s garment output went to German company KIK, who have paid out nearly $2 million dollars in compensation to the victims’ families.
Read more: ATC acquits Baldia Town arson suspect and policeman in murder case
