A powerful explosion shook Karachi on Sunday night, killing three people, including two Chinese nationals, and injuring 12 others. The blast took place near Jinnah International Airport, sparking widespread panic and causing significant destruction.
The explosion hit late Sunday night near the signal at Jinnah International Airport, just as a convoy of foreign nationals, including Chinese engineers working on a power project in Sindh, passed through the area. The blast destroyed several vehicles, among them three cars and four motorcycles, and caused severe traffic congestion on Sharah e Faisal. Initially, reports pointed to an oil tanker explosion as the cause; however, authorities later confirmed that it was, in fact, a deliberate terrorist attack.
Death Toll & Injuries
The death toll now stands at three, including two Chinese nationals. Rescue officials have transferred the bodies of the Chinese nationals to the Edhi morgue. Authorities suspect that the third body, still unidentified, belongs to the attacker. In addition to the fatalities, the explosion injured at least 12 people, including three security guards, two Rangers personnel, a police officer, a foreign national, and several civilians. Furthermore, some of the injured remain in critical condition, and doctors have taken them to nearby hospitals. Meanwhile, the foreign national is receiving treatment at a private medical facility.
Official Statements & Investigation
Sindh Home Minister Zia Ul Hassan Lanjar confirmed that the explosion occurred as a convoy of foreign nationals passed through the area. He stated that the blast destroyed several vehicles, and no prior security alert had warned of the attack. “Terrorists targeted a foreign vehicle, and we are investigating from all angles,” SSP Malir Kashif Abbasi added.
The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan confirmed the deaths of two of its nationals and expressed concern over the incident in a released statement. The embassy labeled the explosion a “terrorist attack” aimed at Chinese engineers and advised all Chinese citizens and enterprises in Pakistan to stay vigilant and follow strict safety precautions.
Crime Scene & Evidence Collection
Security forces quickly sealed off the area to prevent public access and facilitate evidence collection. The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Bomb Disposal Squad arrived at the scene to gather forensic evidence. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being reviewed to identify the attackers. Initial investigations revealed that a “vehicle-borne improvised explosive device” (VBIED) was used in the attack.
BLA Claims Responsibility For The Blast
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) armed group claimed responsibility for the attack in an earlier statement sent to journalists via email, stating that an improvised explosive device (IED) was used in the explosion.
Later, Jibran Nasir, a prominent Pakistani lawyer, civil rights activist, and political figure, addressed the incident on his Instagram account stating: “BLA claims responsibility for the blast near Jinnah International Airport Karachi alleging they were targeting a Chinese envoy. As per Police Surgeon Karachi 7 injured have been brought up to JPMC identified as police constable Waqar, 28, Muhammad Ilyas, 45, Muhammad Naeem, 51, Umar Tariq, 29, Ranu Khan, 35, Azeem Meer, 45, and Tasleem Noor, 48. The alleged target were our State guests. The known casualties are our ordinary citizens. Terror attacks can never be part of any solution but will always be a reason to worsen the problem. At a time when a peaceful voice for Baloch rights like Mahrang Baloch is being recognized globally outfits like BLA (proscribed globally) are isolating the Baloch with their violence.”
Government & Authorities’ Response
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah demanded an immediate report from the police chief and instructed authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care. He also stressed the importance of conducting a thorough investigation to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Pakistan stands committed to safeguarding our Chinese friends. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure their security & well-being.” – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in a tweet
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) confirmed that the blast did not affect airport buildings or assets, and flight schedules continue as normal. Additionally, the PAA’s director general assured full cooperation in rescue and investigation efforts, while security at the airport has been significantly increased in response to the attack.
This latest incident has further heightened concerns about the safety of foreign nationals working in Pakistan, especially those from China, who have been targeted in previous attacks. The Chinese Embassy, once again, reiterated the need for stronger security measures for its citizens and urged the Pakistani government to expedite a comprehensive investigation into the attack.
This is a developing story.
News Sources: Express Tribune, Dawn, Al Jazeera, and BBC.
