KARACHI: A man lost his life in a shooting incident at a sheesha lounge situated in Gulistan-e-Johar, Block 3.
According to police sources, the victim has been identified as Najeeb. Early investigations suggest that a group of intoxicated individuals entered the café and attempted to sit in a designated area reserved for women. When the staff asked them to vacate the space, tensions escalated, leading to an argument with the security personnel.
During the confrontation, police report that the security guard allegedly discharged a firearm, hitting Najeeb and causing his death.
In response to the incident, law enforcement authorities detained both the café’s manager and the security personnel for questioning. The investigation remains ongoing to determine the exact circumstances.
It is important to note that in 2024, the Sindh government enforced a ban on the use of sheesha and e-cigarettes (vapes) in public venues. This directive was issued under the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers’ Health Ordinance of 2002, with the aim of safeguarding public health.
The Sindh Health Department issued instructions to the commissioners across various divisions, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, and Sukkur, emphasizing the enforcement of the ban. The regulations prohibit the use of sheesha and e-cigarettes in public spaces such as hotels, restaurants, parks, cafes, and picnic areas. However, reports indicate that the strict enforcement of these rules has yet to be fully realized, with authorities not implementing the ordinance in its true spirit.
