KARACHI: At least 43 people have been killed in political violence in the city during the last 18 days, officials said Monday as they announced the arrest of 11 suspects.

“We can confirm that as many as 43 people had been the victims of targeted killings in Karachi during the last 18 days,” Interior Minister Rehman Malik told a press conference.

“We have arrested 11 men suspected of involvement in the targeted killings.”

“There is a conspiracy going on against Pakistan to destabilise it, but I can't share the evidence at the moment,” Malik added.

“Criminal elements could be almost present in all political parties and action will be taken across the board against them.”

Malik had also held a detailed meeting with DG Rangers Pakistan (Sindh) here today.

It is our priority to provide protection to the life and property of the masses, he said.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah confirmed the number of victims and said they included members of different political groups.

“Some 43 innocent people have been gunned down since March 10, which included the activists of various political parties,” said Shah.

Another 17 people were shot dead in Karachi, Pakistan's largest city and commercial capital, in January this year.