Dismissed police constable injured in shooting in Karachi

KARACHI: A dismissed police constable was injured in a firing incident in Sector 22 of Shah Latif Town on Wednesday, police confirmed.

The injured man, identified as Hamza Sial, initially introduced himself as an official of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and gave conflicting statements regarding the circumstances of the incident. His behavior raised suspicions, prompting CTD officers to visit Jinnah Hospital for verification.

During preliminary investigation, it was revealed that Hamza Sial was previously posted at the Gizri Police Station but had been dismissed from service in 2016 for allegedly opening fire on a civilian. Furthermore, officials confirmed that he was recently released from jail in 2024.

Police are continuing their inquiry to determine the motive behind the shooting and whether Hamza was targeted or involved in any criminal activity at the time of the incident. His false claim of CTD affiliation is also under investigation.

Sial provided a statement to the police, claiming his motorcycle was stolen from Shah Latif Town on the 10th of Muharram, which he had reported to the police station. He stated he had visited the station to inquire about his stolen motorcycle.

According to Hamza Sial, upon his return, robbers intercepted him and snatched his purse and mobile phone during the robbery attempt. He managed to save his newly purchased second motorcycle from being taken.

Authorities are now investigating the conflicting accounts and the true nature of the incident involving the former police officer. The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in verifying claims in such situations.