KARACHI: Police have submitted their investigation report and challan to prosecutors in the Gul Plaza fire case declaring the blaze that killed 72 people as accidental.
According to the report, a copy of which was obtained, the Punjab Forensic Science Laboratory found no evidence of explosive material at the site, ruling out sabotage.
Police have named six suspects, including a shopkeeper and his 11-year-old son, in connection with alleged negligence and dereliction of duty. All accused are reportedly absconding.
The suspects include shopkeeper Naimatullah, his son Huzaifa, Gul Plaza Committee President Tanveer Pasta, Vice President Ammar Ismail, General Secretary Mohammad Amin and Joint Secretary Mohammad Ramzan.
Investigators said the fire originated in shop No. 193, owned by Naimatullah. The report states he frequently left the shop under the supervision of his young son.
Read More: Fire erupts again at Karachi’s blaze-damaged Gul Plaza
According to findings, the fire began when the child allegedly lit matchsticks, igniting artificial flowers stored in the shop.
The report places major responsibility on the Gul Plaza market union, citing multiple failures that worsened the tragedy.
It states that emergency services were not alerted promptly and that the main gates of the market remained closed during the fire, severely restricting escape routes.
Investigators said the closure of the gates amounted to gross negligence by the administration.
The report also said electricity to the building was cut off during the fire on instructions of union officials, plunging the structure into darkness and making evacuation more difficult.
The report criticized the market administration for allowing a minor to work in the shop, calling it a serious lapse in oversight and regulatory compliance.
Witness statements recorded under Section 164 have been included in the investigation. However, sources said the judicial commission report has not yet been incorporated into the challan.
The case will proceed as authorities review negligence charges linked to one of the city’s deadliest fire incidents.
