A bomb blast near Karachi Airport resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals and left another injured.Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, assured that the government is committed to safeguarding Chinese nationals and is conducting an investigation into the attack.
Karachi Airport Blast :At least three foreign nationals died and 17 others were injured in a large explosion near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, according to reports from Pakistan’s Geo News. The blast, which occurred on October 3, 2023, has raised serious security concerns and prompted a response from authorities as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
This incident occurs as Pakistan prepares to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Islamabad, a significant event now clouded by recent protests and clashes involving police and supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s assurances underscore the urgent need for enhanced security in the region, particularly for foreign nationals engaged in crucial development projects across the country.
Key Insights from the Karachi Airport Explosion Incident
- An explosion occurred near Karachi’s airport on Sunday night, heard in distant neighborhoods.
- The blast targeted a convoy of foreign nationals under heavy security leaving Jinnah Airport.
- An oil tanker is believed to have exploded, resulting in two fatalities and eight injuries, including one Chinese national.
- TV footage showed smoke and flames rising from the area close to the airport.
- Witnesses reported that the explosion was heard in various parts of the city, including North Nazimabad, II Chundrigar Road, and Karimabad.
Karachi Airport Explosion: Two Chinese Nationals Killed in BLA Claimed Terrorist Attack
On Sunday night, an explosion near Karachi’s international airport resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals. The Chinese embassy in Pakistan described the incident as a “terrorist attack.” The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) later claimed responsibility, stating that they targeted Chinese engineers using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED). This attack raises significant concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in Pakistan.
Attack on Chinese Convoy Near Karachi Airport: Embassy Issues Urgent Statement
The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan issued a statement following an attack on October 6, around 11 PM, involving a convoy carrying staff from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company near Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. The attack resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals and injuries to one, along with some local casualties. The embassy has initiated an emergency response, urging Pakistani authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, punish the attackers severely, and enhance safety measures for Chinese citizens and projects in Pakistan.
Pakistan Prime Minister Promises Security for Chinese Nationals Amid Investigation into Attack
In the wake of a violent attack on a convoy carrying Chinese nationals near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that one Chinese national was injured and announced that an investigation is underway. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Sharif expressed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its Chinese partners, saying, “We will leave no stone unturned to ensure their security and well-being.”
BLA Targets Chinese Interests in Balochistan: Gwadar Port Under Threat
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) specifically targets Chinese interests in Balochistan, particularly focusing on the strategic port of Gwadar on the Arabian Sea.The group accuses Beijing of colluding with Islamabad to exploit the province’s resources and has previously carried out deadly attacks against Chinese nationals and targeted China’s consulate in Karachi.These actions highlight the escalating tensions between local separatist groups and foreign investments, posing significant risks to ongoing development projects in Balochistan.
