Tensions flared in the Gizri area on Sunday as family members and locals staged protests following the killing of an alleged gang leader by police.
The deceased, identified as Shayan Mashori, was a most-wanted suspect associated with the Mashori Gang, reportedly involved in over 30 cases of robbery, street crime, and other serious offenses across various police jurisdictions.
According to District South police, the suspect was killed in an exchange of fire during a police raid near Iqbal Ground in PNT Colony on a tip-off. The police stated that the suspect opened fire upon their arrival, prompting the team to return fire, resulting in his death. Officers present at the scene were hit by bullets but remained unharmed due to bulletproof vests.
Following the incident, the family of the deceased and supporters took to the streets, prompting a heavy police deployment to the area.
Authorities used shelling to disperse the protesters, which caused significant traffic disruption. Major routes from Race Course to Gizri were closed, and Chaudhry Khaliq Uz Zaman Road was also blocked. Incoming traffic from Race Course is being diverted to Teen Talwar, while traffic from Saudi Light Signal is redirected to Jam Sadiq. Long lines of vehicles have been reported across the affected areas.
Police reiterated that the deceased suspect was a dangerous criminal and that action was taken in accordance with law enforcement procedures. Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area and cooperate with traffic diversions while maintaining law and order.
