A police officer shot dead a Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) worker and father of eight in public in Larkana district, authorities said, prompting the arrest of the officer.
The victim was identified as Ali Gohar Kalhoro, a farmer from Qambar Shahdadkot.
According to police, Kalhoro was riding a motorcycle when officer Arz Muhammad Jatoi opened fire at close range. Eyewitnesses said the victim folded his hands and pleaded for forgiveness, but the officer continued firing.
Police said the incident took place on the day of Benazir Bhutto’s death anniversary and added that the officer’s brother also arrived at the scene and opened fire in public.
Following the shooting, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Larkana ordered the immediate arrest of the officer. Police confirmed that Arz Muhammad Jatoi had been taken into custody and dismissed from service.
An inquiry committee has been formed under Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Larkana to investigate the circumstances of the incident.
Police sources said the officer claimed the victim had fought with their children before the shooting. They added that he allegedly fired three to four additional shots after catching the suspect.
Authorities also said the SP summoned the victim’s heirs to take legal action so that a case could be registered against the officer and further proceedings carried out.