Officials say families of missing have provided 69 DNA samples, of which 23 victims have been positively identified
KARACHI: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-Jan 26th, 2026) Nine days after the deadly fire at Gul Plaza, the search for 46 missing people remains unresolved, as authorities continue efforts to identify victims through forensic and investigative means.
The officials said families of the missing have provided 69 DNA samples, of which 23 victims have been positively identified.
The remaining 46 sets of remains are currently unidentifiable due to severe damage caused by the blaze.
Sources said investigators are tracing the 46 missing individuals using last-known locations, call records, and other available data.
Detailed information has been exchanged between the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) and the police, and the compiled profiles have been forwarded to senior law enforcement officials.
Meanwhile, Senior Director of Municipal Services Raja Rustam told the media that 273 dumper loads of debris have been removed from the site so far. He said a forensic team from Lahore inspected the building on Sunday and returned on Monday for further examination.
“The Gul Plaza building is being sealed, and green safety netting has been installed around the structure. Police, city wardens, and Rangers will remain deployed for security,” he said, adding that a decision would be taken to demolish the building if it is declared structurally unsafe after inspections.
A copy of the first information report (FIR) related to the incident has also surfaced.
The case was registered on the complaint of Police Inspector Nawaz Ali Zardari, stating that the fire was reported at 10:30am and originated at Shop No. 193, identified as New Tawakkal Flower and Gift Shop.
The FIR further said that Gul Plaza lacked firefighting equipment and emergency exits.
Most of the building’s doors were reportedly locked during the fire, and a power outage made it difficult for people inside to evacuate, contributing to the high number of casualties.
