Prosecutors have once again raised serious objections to the police investigation into the Gul Plaza fire tragedy, returning the charge sheet over what they described as an ‘incomplete’ and ‘flawed inquiry’.
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According to an ARY News report, the charge sheet was sent back after prosecutors found that earlier objections regarding errors in the investigation had not been properly addressed.
The prosecution reportedly concluded that the submitted document remained deficient despite previous observations.
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Media reports said the charge sheet did not include a key judicial commission report. Investigators also allegedly failed to examine whether the building’s emergency exits were blocked or determine who was responsible for obstructing escape routes during the fire.
The investigation further reportedly overlooked allegations that multiple shops had been constructed at Gul Plaza in a space where only one shop was originally permitted.
According to media reports, investigators also failed to adequately involve relevant civic agencies in the inquiry, including the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), Karachi Development Authority (KDA), Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), and the fire brigade.
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responsible for Karachi’s Gul Plaza Fire
Police had earlier submitted a four-page charge sheet naming more than 60 witnesses in the case. Six individuals, including an 11-year-old boy, were declared responsible for the incident.
Those named in the charge sheet include Tanveer Pasta, Huzifa, Ammar, Amin, Muhammad Ramzan, and Nematullah.
As per media reports, Tanveer Pasta serves as a union president, Ammar Ismail is the vice president, Amin is the general secretary, Muhammad Ramzan is the joint secretary, while Nematullah owned the shop where the fire reportedly started.
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Investigators have also recorded statements from four individuals, including 11-year-old Huzifa, who allegedly admitted before a court that he had been playing with matchsticks.
Further legal proceedings are expected as authorities continue reviewing the investigation and work to address the deficiencies highlighted by the prosecution.
