Four people have been included in a First Information Report (FIR) against them for allegedly firing off firecrackers on the van that was hanging from a crane on the eve of Muharram, one of the Akhri acts. Three people accused have been caught, and an attempt has been made to find the fourth.
Police said that the incident took place after a van on the celebration procession was lifted by a crane during a special Muharram ceremony. Suspended vehicles reportedly sparked firecrackers, raising a dangerous situation and attracting the attention of police.
Police then proceeded to investigate and found four individuals allegedly behind the organisation and execution of the stunt. All the 4 accused were pushed in a registered FIR for the relevant provisions of the law which states endangering public safety and violation of the regulations for holding public processions.
Two of the accused were arrested immediately after the case was registered, and a third was arrested later. They continued to say more investigation is ongoing on the poster’s location and to find the remaining accused and check if anyone else was involved in the planning or carrying out of the act.
This is done to ensure public safety and prevent risky activities in religious processions, authorities said. The code of conduct for organisers and participants was also requested and their extra effort to ensure safety compliance while conducting any special display or performance was called for.
While upholding safety standards during mass gatherings is vital, especially when millions of people go out on religious processions, the incident has once again gone to remind people. Police said that those that are deemed at fault will be subject to the appropriate action upon the finalization of the investigation.