Eight people, including four women, were injured in celebratory firing in Hyderabad on the eve of New Year as stray bullets from aerial gunfire struck individuals across the city, police said today.

According to police and hospital sources, the injured, ranging in age from 10 to 60, were rushed to the Civil Hospital Hyderabad for treatment. Authorities said most of the cases were reported from areas under Market Police Station’s jurisdiction.

A 10-year-old boy, identified as Hadi, was injured by bullet fragments in Heerabad. In Latifabad, 20-year-old Zeeshan suffered a gunshot wound that passed through his neck, police said.

In Heerabad, 40-year-old Mehreen was struck by a bullet in the arm, while a 14-year-old boy, Saifullah, was injured by bullet fragments in his face. Gulshan Bano, 60, sustained injuries from shrapnel on her face, and 17-year-old Anas was hurt by the bullet in the hand.

In the SITE area, 12-year-old Arooma was struck in the head by a stray bullet, while 25-year-old Rabia was shot in the back.

Police said investigations were underway to identify those responsible for the gunfire. ‘We will take strict action against anyone found involved in aerial firing,’ a police spokesperson said.

Residents condemned the dangerous practice, which has become a recurring issue during festive celebrations. Authorities urged the public to report such incidents and celebrate responsibly to avoid similar tragedies.

Despite warnings, incidents of celebratory gunfire remain common in Pakistan, often resulting in injuries or fatalities.