A motorcycle burns after being set on fire by unidentified men near the US consulate during a protest against the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Israeli-US airstrikes against the Islamic Republic. Photo: PPI
KARACHI:
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the reported martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and conveyed solidarity with the people of Iran and those mourning the loss.
The Prime Minister also referred to a tragic incident that occurred at the US Consulate General in Karachi, which resulted in loss of life, and ordered authorities to conduct an impartial investigation. He stressed that at a time when the country was facing a war situation, any attempt to disturb peace and order was unacceptable.
Murad Ali Shah contacted religious scholars, including Allama Shehenshah Naqvi and Allama Shabbir Meesami, urging them to help keep public sentiments in check and remain calm. The academics informed him about the plans to hold a Majlis at Numaish Chowrangi, after which the prime minister directed the administration and police to ensure all security measures for the gathering.
He appealed to religious leaders and people of all schools of thought to guide the public towards maintaining peace and harmony. The prime minister reiterated that the government would not allow anyone to take the law into their own hands and directed law enforcement agencies to ensure public order at all costs.
He also urged citizens to cooperate with authorities, stating that protecting the lives and property of the public remained the government’s top priority.
Bilawal expresses his pain
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Saturday expressed deep grief over the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying the event had sent shockwaves across the world.
According to a statement issued by the Bilawal House media cell, the PPP chairman said the news had caused deep pain not only in Iran but among people around the world. He prayed for patience and strength for the bereaved and highlighted that the loss of precious human lives due to violence and war posed a serious challenge to regional peace and security.
Bilawal warned that escalating tensions involving Iran, Israel and the Gulf countries could have dangerous consequences for both regional stability and global peace.
PML-F denounces attack
On the other hand, PML-F Sindh General Secretary Sardar Abdul Rahim also expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of Khamenei following the Israeli bombardment, terming the incident as very alarming for regional peace and stability.
In a statement, he described what happened as a great tragedy for the Muslim community and strongly condemned the violence, shooting and shelling against protesters in Karachi, calling the loss of innocent lives and injuries regrettable.
He urged the Sindh government to immediately announce compensation to the families of the deceased and injured, while advising protesters to remain peaceful.
Ranger Deployment
In view of the prevailing security situation, Sindh Rangers have deployed a large contingent of mobile surveillance teams in various parts of the metropolis to ensure maintenance of law and order.
According to a spokesperson of the Sindh Rangers, the deployment has been carried out in sensitive areas, key installations and along the main arteries of the city. Teams conduct continuous patrols and surveillance to respond quickly to any untoward incidents.
The paramilitary force urged citizens to refrain from illegal acts, vandalism and violent protests during any demonstration, warning that any attempt to disturb the peace will not be tolerated. Strict legal action will be taken against elements involved in creating the disorder, the spokesperson added.
The public has been requested to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious activity or violation of law to the Rangers helpline on 1101 or via Madadgar WhatsApp number 0347-9001111.
