'Target killings, a conspiracy to malign MQM'

Sattar allege­s target killin­gs after Imran Farooq's murder aim to portra­y MQM as perpetrators of violence.

KARACHI: Dr Farooq Sattar, Deputy Convenor MQM Rabita Committee lashed out at the government for its failure to prevent target killings in Karachi.

Speaking at a press conference today (Monday) Sattar said a well-coordinated conspiracy was afoot to paint the MQM in a negative light following the killing of MQM leader Imran Farooq.

There is a conspiracy afoot to make the world believe that the ongoing target killings are linked to Imran Farooq's murder, and thus the MQM is to blame for the ongoing killings. After earlier failed attempts to create a violent backlash in Karachi, the conspirators have now started this new campaign of violence.

Sattar also expressed incredulity over the inability of the police or rangers to prevent target killings. He stated that this ‘free hand’ provided to target killers puts the blame for target killings squarely with the government and home ministry.

With the presence of police and rangers in the city it is remarkable that the target killers are getting away. I blame the government and the Home Minister for giving this free hand for target killings. Either we (MQM) receive answers, or we will assume the government and home ministry are behind this conspiracy.

Over 12 people have been killed in a fresh wave of target killings in different areas of Karachi over the last 24 hours.