AK-47 used in attack on Recorder House | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

AK-47 used in attack on Recorder House

A Russian-made assault rifle was used in Recorder House attack last Monday that left two persons injured. The bullets used were, however, China-made, Business Recorder learnt on Wednesday. Some arms and ammunition experts who requested anonymity, said that attackers used AK-47, which is widely known for its simple design, fairly compact size and adaptation to mass production.

According to them, the import of AK-47 rifle is prohibited but the government has allowed the elders of some 10 to 12 tribes in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) to sell this weapon only to licensees. However, there are several places in Karachi where AK-47 rifle, which is being smuggled into Pakistan, from Afghanistan can be easily purchased without any permit under the very nose of authorities concerned, they maintained.

Moreover, they said the possibilities of use of licensed arms and ammunition in Recorder House attack could not be ruled out as thousands of prohibited arms’ licenses were issued, to different political parties on MNAs’ and MPAs’ quota by the incumbent government since 2008.

Answering a question, they said although it was quiet difficult to ascertain whether or not the weapon used in the crime was licensed or illegal, if the crime was committed through a licensed weapon, the role of all political parties would be come suspicious.

Meanwhile, Ghulam Shabir Sheikh, Additional Inspector General (AIG) told Business Recorder that an investigation team headed by SP Salam Sheikh had been constituted to investigate the case. According to him, his department has been working towards evolving a comprehensive plan to avert such incidents in future. The plan is also aimed at providing foolproof security to media houses in Karachi, he added.

Business Recorder