In a distressing turn of events unfolding in a Karachi constituency, a presiding officer from PS-37 has leveled serious accusations against armed members of a political party, accusing them of forcibly taking away ballot papers.
Abdul Wajid, on his national duty overseeing the electoral process, recounted a terrifying encounter with around 20 to 25 individuals riding motorcycles.
While the electoral staff, including women, were diligently carrying out their responsibilities, the alleged armed intruders boldly demanded to confiscate sacks of ballot papers. Wajid, unwavering in his commitment to the electoral process, disclosed in a video circulating on social media that “being on national duty, it was impossible for us to comply with their request.”
Despite the firm refusal, the armed group forcibly entered the premises, brandishing firearms and ignoring the pleas of the polling staff.
The presiding officer claimed that the armed men resorted to intimidation, attempting to force him into surrendering the ballot papers. However, the armed group reportedly mistreated the polling staff, including women, making off with four to five sacks of crucial ballot papers.
Further exacerbating the gravity of the situation, Wajid expressed his dismay over the lack of adequate security measures. He highlighted the inadequacy of having only one guard, who was easily overpowered by the armed individuals.
Fortunately, the culprits fled, leaving the ballot papers behind, as the police responded promptly.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of the electoral process in certain areas and raises concerns about the safety and security of those entrusted with its execution.