‘Defamation’ of nuclear scientists: MMA supporters clash with police in Karachi

* 50 arrested, policeman injured among 3

Staff Report

KARACHI: Three people including a policeman were injured on Friday in clashes between police and Mutthahida Majlis-e-Amal supporters who burned tyres and pelted stones at various places to protest alleged humiliation of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan and other nuclear scientists.

Police arrested more than 50 protesters who were forcibly trying to close shops. “At least 50 protesters in Banaras Chowk, Qasba Colony, New Karachi, Jamshed Town, Gulberg, Gulshan-e-Iqbal and Gadap were arrested,” said Inspector General of Sindh Police Syed Kamal Shah.

Ferozabad Police arrested seven MMA activists and impounded the car they were travelling in. Police were deployed in large numbers in sensitive areas to thwart possible violence.

Police resorted to teargas shelling and baton charge to disperse protesters and two MMA activists and a policeman were injured in clashes. Witnesses said a few protesters also fired into the air and threw stones at police stations.

Witnesses said that MMA supporters burnt tyres and stopped traffic in Nazimabad, North Nazimabad, Hyderi Market, Shadman Town and other areas. At least 10 vehicles including two mini-buses and the same number of taxis and rickshaws were destroyed.

“There was no major incident and by and large the city has remained peaceful,” Mr Shah said.

He said the detainees would be booked on charges of damaging property and forcing people to shut their businesses.

The strike was successful in the morning because only thin traffic was seen on roads. Schools opened as usual but attendance was thin. Business centres and markets were closed. Traffic was thin on usually busy roads. Offices and banks were open but attendance was very thin because public transport was not available and people were seen in large numbers at bus stops after work hours.

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