KARACHI: Workers of the Muttahida Qaumi MOvement protested violently in Karachi after being issued directives by party chief Altaf Hussain to attack the offices of Geo, ARY and Samaa on Monday, video obtained by Geo News shows.
MQM workers had gathered for a hunger strike outside the Karachi Press Club where party chief Altaf Hussain spoke to them via telephone.
“Bhai, we are ready and waiting for your command,” a female MQM worker can be heard asking Altaf Hussain.
“Bismillah! Bismillah!” MQM chief Altaf Hussain can be heard responding, with workers getting up to follow his orders.
“Okay, bhai. We were only waiting for your orders. We are getting up now,” the female worker can be heard saying with others getting up.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBIRjjk4Sy8
At least one person has reportedly been killed in the violence that ensured after the MQM chief’s live telephonic speech to party workers outside the Press Club.
The workers turned to violence, pelting stones and damaging cars and shops at Zainab Market area. Aerial firing was also reported from the area.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has condemned the violence in the city, with DG Rangers Maj-Gen Bilal Akbar ordering strict and swift action against the attackers.
“Nobody would be allowed to disrupt the peace of the city,” said the DG Rangers, according to a press release from the paramilitary law enforcement force.
“We are closely monitoring the situation. Those who carried out the attack will be made to pay for every second,” said Maj-Gen Bilal Akbar in his statement.
“Those who take the law into their hands will not be spared,” he said.