Police constable martyred, Two suspected robbers killed in Karachi Orangi Town shootout

A police constable was martyred while two suspected robbers were killed during an exchange of fire in Karachi's Orangi Town early Tuesday morning, according to police officials.

A police constable was martyred while two suspected robbers were killed during an exchange of fire in Karachi’s Orangi Town early Tuesday morning, according to police officials. The incident occurred near Liaquat Chowk within the jurisdiction of Pakistan Bazaar Police Station during a routine police patrol.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) West Tariq Illahi Mastoi said four police officers were conducting motorcycle patrols when they encountered armed suspects. According to the police, the suspects opened indiscriminate fire upon spotting the patrol team, prompting officers to return fire in self-defense.

During the shootout, both suspected robbers were killed at the scene. Police recovered two pistols, ammunition, spent shell casings, and the motorcycle allegedly used by the suspects.

However, 26-year-old Constable Hassan Ali sustained serious gunshot injuries during the exchange. He was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where doctors made every effort to save his life. Despite medical treatment, he succumbed to his injuries and was later declared martyred.

District West police spokesperson Nabeel Ahmed Rajput stated that the constable was wearing body armor at the time of the encounter. However, the bullets struck him from the side, causing fatal injuries.

Constable Hassan Ali was unmarried and hailed from Sukkur. Following funeral prayers at the Garden Police Headquarters in Karachi, his body was transported to his hometown for burial. The funeral was attended by Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho, Additional IGP Azad Khan, and several senior police officials, who paid tribute to the fallen officer’s sacrifice.

Police investigations later revealed that one of the deceased suspects had a significant criminal history. Officials said he had previously been arrested in connection with the 2021 killing of an assistant sub-inspector and was involved in at least 13 criminal cases. Another criminal case had also been registered against the second suspect.

The incident highlights the continuing security challenges faced by law enforcement personnel in Karachi. Police officers frequently encounter armed criminals during patrols, placing their lives at risk while carrying out their duties.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to continuing operations against street crime and organized criminal networks across the city to improve public safety and maintain law and order.