A young girl, Zunaira, daughter of Akram, died on Monday following a speeding vehicle collision at an imambargah gathering in Karachi’s Defence Housing Authority (DHA). The incident led to authorities registering a case against suspects under anti-terrorism and attempted murder laws.
Over a dozen people were injured, mostly women. Seven remain hospitalized while others have been discharged after receiving medical care. Videos on social media showed injured individuals lying on the road as mourners called for assistance.
Police registered an FIR incorporating provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act, attempted murder, damage to property, and negligent driving. Three suspects, identified as Zahid, another companion, and Momin from Qasba Colony, have been taken into custody. Initial medical examinations confirmed all three were under the influence of intoxicants at the time of the incident.
Preliminary investigations suggest the suspects were returning from Sea View after consuming drugs when they encountered a police checkpoint. The driver attempted to evade police by speeding away, causing the vehicle to lose control and crash outside the imambargah. A fourth individual initially taken into custody was later identified as an injured passerby struck by the vehicle.