By our correspondent
KARACHI: A woman suspected of drug dealing and addiction died after jumping from the fourth floor of a residential building in Karachi’s Defence Phase 6 during a police raid, an incident that has raised concerns over the handling of drug-related arrests and law enforcement tactics.
Police say the woman, allegedly involved in selling narcotics and providing a safe haven for drug users, attempted to escape arrest by leaping from her apartment’s balcony. She was rushed to Jinnah Hospital but succumbed to her injuries during treatment.
The raid was launched following the arrest of a suspected drug dealer, identified as Ubaid, near Sea View. During interrogation, Ubaid reportedly provided information leading authorities to the woman’s residence. Acting on the tip-off, police, accompanied by female search officers, arrived at the apartment and attempted to gain entry. According to law enforcement officials, the woman refused to open the door, and as officers proceeded with the operation, she climbed onto the balcony and jumped in a desperate bid to avoid detention.
A video circulating on social media captures the dramatic moments before the fatal fall. In the footage, the woman is seen clinging to the balcony railing before retreating inside, while police officers can be heard urging her to open the door. Shortly after, she is believed to have jumped. The footage has sparked debate over police procedures in high-pressure situations, with some questioning whether alternative de-escalation tactics could have prevented the tragedy.
Following the incident, police searched the woman’s apartment and recovered a stash of narcotics, including crystal meth (ice), as well as various drug paraphernalia, reinforcing suspicions of her involvement in the illicit trade. While authorities maintain that the operation was conducted in line with standard procedures, the case has prompted an internal review to determine whether any lapses occurred in handling the situation. The incident adds to the growing concerns about the rise of synthetic drug use in Karachi and the challenges law enforcement faces in tackling the underground narcotics trade. Investigations are ongoing to trace further connections between the deceased woman and other drug networks operating in the city.
