For the last several days, the densely populated neighbourhood of Lyari has been echoing with endless volleys of gunfire. At times the sound of gunfire is interrupted by rocket-propelled grenades, forcing most residents to either remain indoors or run for life.

Violence seems to have become a permanent feature of life in one of the oldest and most impoverished neighbourhoods in Karachi. In the latest round of bloodletting, security forces have squared off against gunmen and ‘gangsters’ following the murder of a seasoned Pakistan People’s Party activist on Thursday.

However, while security forces confronted gunmen armed with grenades and other heavy weapons, many outside of Lyari are unaware of the bloodshed and lawlessness that now appears to rule Karachi’s old city area. – Photos by Agencies