A major revelation has emerged during the clearance operation following the deadly fire at Gul Plaza shopping centre, with sources saying that entry and exit routes to the basement were found locked.

According to videos made by search and rescue teams during the clearance operation, and obtained by Aaj News, clearly show that doors leading to the basement were shut and secured with locks.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire broke out in the basement of Gul Plaza, where restricted access worsened the situation.

Search and rescue teams have completed their inspection of the building and preparations are being made to seal the structure.

Special team formed to probe fire

Meanwhile, a special investigation team (SIT) has been constituted to conduct a thorough probe into the tragedy.

The team has been formed on the orders of the DIG South, and an official notification has also been issued.

Sources said the five-member investigative committee will operate under the SP Investigation.

The team has been tasked with probing all aspects of the incident, identifying those responsible and ensuring their arrest.

The DIG South said that responsibility would be determined on the basis of evidence gathered during the investigation, and legal action would be taken against those found involved.

Identification process ongoing

Meanwhile, the process of identifying human remains recovered from the site remains incomplete.

Police Surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed said that a total of 73 sets of human remains have yet to be identified.

Speaking to Aaj News, Dr Summaiya said that DNA testing is being conducted multiple times on each set of remains to avoid any errors in identification.

She added that the poor condition of some remains posed serious challenges in the identification process.

According to her, at least 16 sets of remains are currently difficult to identify through DNA analysis, though efforts to complete the process are ongoing.

Building will be sealed

The search operation following the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi is nearing completion, and authorities have decided to seal the affected building today.

According to the district administration, the recovery of bodies and human remains from the debris over the past nine to ten days has been completed.

However, as a precautionary measure, a survey team will conduct one final inspection of the building.

Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso told the media that the building would be completely sealed after the search operation, as it has become severely unstable and could collapse at any time.

He urged anyone who still has a missing relative to immediately contact the city administration.

Data forwarded for compensation

Khoso said that the data of 30 deceased individuals has been forwarded to the government to facilitate financial assistance for the affected families, adding that cheques will soon be distributed to the legal heirs.

According to the district administration, the death toll from the incident has reached 73.

The identities of several victims were confirmed through DNA testing. The number of missing persons has risen to 82.

Officials said that 55 families have provided DNA samples, while the families of other missing people have been given a deadline to complete the identification process.

So far, 23 bodies have been identified, including 16 through DNA analysis, officials added.

The deputy commissioner said the ground and mezzanine floors of the building have been fully cleared, while a limited section was in the final stages of the search.

Case against unidentified people

Meanwhile, the police have registered a case related to the incident. SSP City Arif Aziz said an FIR regarding the Gul Plaza fire has been lodged at Nabi Bakhsh police station against unidentified persons.

Statements from witnesses and staff are being recorded, including those of six security guards.

He added that if negligence or carelessness is established during the investigation, those responsible will be brought to justice.