Karachi: Clashes between two ethnic groups in this southern Pakistani port city continued for the third day today, with the death toll rising to 38 following the killing of five persons by unidentified gunmen.
Over 100 people have been injured in the violence that erupted on Saturday after members of one group resorted to indiscriminate firing in several parts of Karachi. An uneasy calm prevailed in the city today after unidentified gunmen killed five persons in Orangi Town area, Geo News channel reported.
Dozens of vehicles were torched in different areas while rioters continued to damage public and private property across the city. Police have arrested 40 people in connection with the violent incidents.
Shops were shut and traffic went off Karachi's roads following the violence. Authorities have also ordered the closure of all educational institutions.
The violence has continued despite the Sindh government issuing shoot-to-kill orders to police and paramilitary forces to quell the violence. The authorities yesterday imposed a three-day ban on pillion riding on motorcycles, which were being used by gunmen for drive-by shootings.
Sindh Home Minister Zulfiqar Mirza visited violence-hit areas with leaders of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement and Awami National Party.
Most of the clashes have been between local Karachi residents, who traditionally back the MQM, and the city's Pashtun migrant population, who support the ANP.
Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gillani and Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah have taken serious note of the situation and directed law enforcement agencies to stop the violence.
