Funerals Held for 13 Killed in Skardu and Gilgit Protests Amid Curfew

Funeral prayers were held on Monday for 13 individuals who lost their lives during recent protests in Skardu and Gilgit. The gatherings took place at the Markazi Imamia Jamia Masjid in Skardu and the Central Imamia Masjid in Gilgit, familiar with the situation.

The protests erupted following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Authorities responded to the deteriorating law and order situation by imposing a three-day curfew in both Skardu and Gilgit districts, starting Monday. The curfew aims to restore calm after violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces.

According to official and hospital sources, a total of 13 people were killed during the unrest on Sunday. Among the deceased was one security official. Six fatalities were reported in Skardu, while seven people lost their lives in Gilgit. Sources also indicated that a young man who had been injured during the protests in Gilgit later succumbed to his wounds, raising the death toll to 13.

More than 100 people were reported injured during the clashes, as per hospital and official accounts. Funeral prayers for five of the deceased were held at the Markazi Imamia Masjid in Gilgit.

Authorities have not provided further details regarding the identities of the victims or the precise circumstances of the clashes. The imposition of the curfew is expected to remain in effect for three days as officials work to stabilize the situation in both cities.