Pakistan: Transporters Protest on National Highway Against Rising Vehicle Arson Cases

Karachi, February 2024 – The Dumper and Oil Tankers Association staged a protest on the National Highway against a recent surge in vehicle arson incidents, demanding stronger security measures. The protest was sparked by multiple trucks and tankers being set on fire by unidentified individuals in different areas of Karachi.

Transporters Demand Action

Speaking on behalf of the association, Liaquat Mehsud, President of the Dumper Owners’ Organization, highlighted concerns over repeated attacks on cargo and tanker vehicles. He stressed that accidents involving these vehicles should be dealt with legally rather than through acts of violence. He also pointed out that a court order permits dumpers to operate within the city, rejecting claims that their entry is unauthorized.

Series of Arson Attacks in Karachi

Unidentified criminals set fire to three cargo trucks and a water tanker in Karachi’s Landhi, Korangi, Al-Karam, and Surjani Town areas. Law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of ten suspects in connection with the recent incidents.

Meanwhile, another tragic accident occurred on Hawkes Bay Road near Musharraf Colony, where a motorbike rider was hit by a dumper, resulting in the death of a resident. The dumper driver fled the scene after the accident.

Authorities have noted a disturbing pattern in the attacks, as multiple vehicles were set ablaze in coordinated early-morning raids before the perpetrators escaped unnoticed.

Law and Order Concerns in Sindh

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised alarms about the worsening security situation in Sindh, citing a rise in street crimes and kidnappings. According to HRCP’s 2023 report, Karachi alone witnessed an 11% increase in street crimes.

Additionally, 2,299 cases of enforced disappearances involving journalists, lawyers, and political activists remain unresolved, as per HRCP’s Sindh Vice Chairperson, Qazi Khizar.

With the ongoing protests and increasing crime rates, transporters are urging authorities to implement stricter security measures to prevent further incidents and ensure safe operations across Karachi’s highways.

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