Tensions escalated in Naushahro Feroze on Tuesday as a protest against controversial canal projects at the Moro-Dadu Bypass turned violent, resulting in clashes between police and demonstrators. At least four people, including a police officer, were injured in the exchange of gunfire.
The protest, which was staged to oppose the construction of disputed canals, took a chaotic turn when law enforcement attempted to disperse the demonstrators. According to reports, both sides exchanged fire, leading to injuries. The wounded were shifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Amid the unrest, a group of enraged protesters reportedly set ablaze the residence of Sindh Home Minister Zia Lanjar, further intensifying the situation. The incident triggered panic in the area, forcing local markets and shops to close as gunfire continued intermittently.
Security forces have since cordoned off the affected area, but the situation remains tense. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the violence or the future of the canal projects that sparked the unrest.
Speaking exclusively to Aaj News, the minister confirmed that his residence was targeted and that some individuals were injured during the unrest. “My house was set on fire, and a few people have been injured,” he said.
He emphasized that the provincial government would not allow anyone to spread unrest in the name of peaceful protest. “No one will be allowed to incite chaos under the cover of a peaceful demonstration,” he remarked.
Commenting on the legal response, Lanjar asserted that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the violence. “The perpetrators will be dealt with according to the law,” he affirmed.
