In reaction to news that Pakistan authorities ordered 1,000 extra troops into Karachi with instructions to "shoot on sight" armed men involved in the recent sectarian violence, Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific Director Sam Zarifi said:
"By granting security forces the power to 'shoot on sight' the Pakistani government is effectively declaring Karachi a war zone."
"Given the Pakistani army's record of human rights violations and impunity, such licence given to the security forces, in a volatile situation, can only be a recipe for disaster, encouraging lawlessness, further violence and killings.
"In granting these powers the authorities contravene international human rights standards and send the message that their own security forces are above the law.
"The violence in Karachi is increasingly alarming. But Pakistan’s authorities must work to restore public order, safety and trust in Karachi society by upholding human rights for all, and through proper use of the law to ensure justice and accountability for all victims of targeted violence. Adding to the violence is not a solution,” said Sam Zarifi.
Notes to Editors
For Amnesty International’s full press statement of 07/07/11, urging Pakistan to act over escalating violence please see:
For more information please contact Amnesty International Asia-Pacific Press Officer,
Katya Nasim at katya.nasim@amnesty.org + 44 207 413 5871 / + 44 7904398103