At least 11 injured as car crashes into Karachi religious gathering

KARACHI – At least 11 people sustained injuries after a speeding car lost control and crashed into a tent erected for a religious gathering near Saba Avenue in DHA Phase VI on Sunday night, the police officials said. The police said that the vehicle first struck several pedestrians before ploughing into a canopy set up outside an imambargah, causing panic among participants and bystanders. SSP South Mehzor Ali confirmed that the driver and two other individuals travelling in the vehicle were taken into custody shortly after the incident. He said the number of injured rose to 11 as additional victims were brought to hospitals for medical treatment. Initial reports had placed the number of injured at five. Security camera footage that surfaced after the crash showed the car travelling at a high speed before the driver apparently lost control. The footage, recorded at around 9:26pm, captured the vehicle hitting pedestrians and then crashing into the tent where the religious gathering was underway. Several people were seen rushing to safety moments before impact. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took notice of the incident and directed authorities to submit a detailed report. According to an official statement, the chief minister was informed that a possible brake failure may have caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle. He ordered officials to impound the car, ensure the driver’s arrest, and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The chief minister also expressed concern for the injured and prayed for their speedy recovery. Police have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident and are examining whether the crash resulted from a mechanical fault or driver negligence. Anmol alias Pinky’s bank details surface in drug trafficking case in Karachi court