Verdict Expected Soon in 2012 Pakistan Factory Fire

A verdict is expected September 22 as to whether a September 2012 factory fire in Pakistan that killed more than 250 workers will be officially deemed an act of terror, local media report.

Prosecutors rested their case on September 2 after presenting forensic, ballistic and chemical analysis and testimony from 400 witnesses.

“Ali Enterprises,” located in Baldia Town area of the nation’s capital, Karachi, exported garment to the United States and Europe. On September 11, 2012, a fire believed to have been arson destroyed the privately owned factory, leaving a tremendous death toll.

The initial investigation following the fire led to charges of negligence against the factory owners. Exit doors were locked and windows covered with iron bars, making escape difficult.

However, a subsequent government report in 2015 brought forth the first allegations of extortion regarding the fire. Prosecutors contend that the fire resulted from an extortion attempt against the owner by a secular political party known as the Muttahida Qaumi Movement.