SUKKUR: Panic and fear gripped Khairpur when three people were killed and 10 injured as a result of a clash between two groups on the eve of 12th Rabiul Awwal celebrations, marking the birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet (SAW). According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Azfar Maheser, the incident occurred when two different rallies clashed at the Ameer Shah Chowk, killing three and injuring scores of others. Firearms were also used in the attack. According to the police, empties of 9mm and an SMG have been recovered from the spot. Two persons Lateef Dino Burriro and Zulfiqar Burriro died on the spot, while Mushtaq Burriro succumbed to his injuries in hospital. The injured have been identified as Qurban, Suleman, Nooral, Liquat, Badshah Dino, Kashmir, Shabir Dharejo, Imtiaz Katohar and Shahabuddin. One of the injured stated to be in critical condition was shifted to Larkana from Khairpur. Speaking to The News, provincial Director General of Health Services, Akhlaq Ahmed Khan, confirmed that three bodies and 10 injured were brought to the Khairpur District Headquarters Hospital. In the aftermath of the incident, tension mounted when several activists gathered at the site of the incident as well as the Khairpur District Headquarters Hospital, leading to shutting down of markets in the city. People carrying bodies protested at the Chatti Chowk, National Highway near the office of SSP Khairpur, causing traffic suspension. SSP Khairpur Captain (retd) Azfar Mahesar and Deputy Commissioner Muhammed Nawaz Sohu negotiated with the protesters, assuring them of registering FIR and taking action against the accused. Following negotiations, the protesters ended their demonstration. Chief Minister Sindh, IGP and the home minister have sought reports from the DIG Sukkur and ordered him to ensure law and order situation. According to SSP Azfar Mahesar, the Kot Diji police have arrested 20 suspects, some of whom were already wanted in different murder cases. Raids are also being conducted to round up other suspects and those listed in the Fourth Schedule, he said. Meanwhile, the affected area has been cordoned off by the police and Rangers and joint patrolling is underway to prevent any recurrence of violence.
