The death toll from the massive blaze that swept through the “Gul Plaza” commercial center in Karachi has risen to 23, after five more bodies were recovered during overnight rescue operations.

Authorities said the fire broke out Saturday evening before rapidly spreading through shops packed with flammable materials such as plastics and cosmetics.

Officials confirmed that the families of around 65 people have reported them missing, prompting provincial authorities to launch a wide-scale search with civil defense participation.

Firefighters managed to fully control the blaze after 24 hours, allowing rescue teams to enter the interior to reach those trapped inside.