Karachi police have formed a special team to arrest those responsible for the deadly Gul Plaza fire and conduct an impartial investigation. The mall inferno, which erupted on January 17, claimed at least 73 lives and destroyed more than 1,100 shops. Authorities said the fire was caused by negligence and carelessness.
The five-member team will include senior officers from the Garden Sub-division, Kharadar investigation unit, and Nabi Bux police station. DIG Syed Asad Raza ordered the team to make “all-out efforts” and use all available resources to apprehend the accused. Daily progress reports must be submitted to the DIG office without fail.
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The police registered the case against unknown persons, as no suspects have been named yet. The team is allowed to co-opt additional officers from the South Zone if needed to solve the case. Officials emphasized that the investigation will remain impartial and diligent.
The search operation at the plaza concluded on Sunday after nine days of scouring the rubble for victims. Only 23 of the deceased have been identified so far, and the building has now been sealed. Temporary restrictions on M.A. Jinnah Road have been lifted, allowing workers to start reconstruction preparations.
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Authorities warned that justice will be ensured for the victims and their families. The focus remains on arresting those responsible, while Karachi city officials work to restore the area and prevent similar tragedies in the future.