Authorities say at least 12 people have been killed in “targeted” killings in Karachi, the latest violence to hit Pakistan's southern port city.

Officials said Tuesday those gunned down in the last 24 hours include activists with both the Muttahida Qaumi Movement, or MQM, and its rival, the Awami National Party.

The MQM is part of the ruling coalition in Sindh province and largely represents the Urdu-speaking community. The Awami National Party represents ethnic Pashtuns.

Police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in Karachi on Tuesday to try and quell the latest surge in political violence.

The city has also been the scene of sectarian killings and militant attacks.