Singer Saif Samejo Arrested and Tortured by Police in Karachi During Protest

Saif Samejo, the renowned singer, lead vocalist of The Sketches band, and founder of Lahooti Melo, brutally tortured by police during a protest in Karachi. The protest, organized by the “Sindh Rawadari March,” turned violent as demonstrators clashed with law enforcement in the Saddar area on Sunday, resulting in Samejo’s arrest.

The rally, which began at Teen Talwar and aimed to march towards the Karachi Press Club, was in response to the murder of blasphemy suspect Dr. Shahnawaz Kunbhar. Protesters demanded justice for Kunbhar and the arrest of those involved in his killing. However, police resistance and the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits public gatherings due to terrorism threats, escalated the situation. Over 100 protesters detained.

Saif Samejo, along with journalists and activists, subjected to baton charges by the police. Samejo’s arrest at the Karachi Press Club, where police and protesters faced off, has drawn widespread attention. Social activist Zahra Khan and several other women also arrested during the protest.

The clashes left a police mobile burned, and two officers injured. Demonstrators gathered outside the Artillery ground police station, demanding the release of those detained. After public outcry, DIG Asad Raza expressed regret over the violent incident and promised the release of Saif Samejo, journalists, and other detained individuals.

This protest highlights ongoing tensions between authorities and civil society in Karachi, with concerns about freedom of expression and police brutality coming to the forefront.