A Pakistani separatist group has claimed responsibility for a late-night bombing near Karachi’s airport that targeted a convoy with Chinese nationals, resulting in the death of two Chinese workers and the injury of eight others. The incident, which occurred outside the airport in the southern port city of Karachi, marks the latest in a series of deadly assaults on Chinese individuals in Pakistan. This attack took place just a week before Pakistan is scheduled to host a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a security alliance formed by China and Russia to counter Western alliances.
Initially, there was confusion surrounding the nature of the explosion, with Pakistani authorities initially suggesting it may have been caused by an oil tanker. However, police later confirmed that it was indeed a deliberate bomb attack. Footage circulated by Pakistani news channels showed cars engulfed in flames and a thick plume of smoke billowing from the area. Security forces swiftly cordoned off the site, and on Monday, counterterrorism officials began investigating how the attacker managed to reach Karachi, the country’s largest city.
The Baloch Liberation Army, the separatist group claiming responsibility for the bombing, revealed that one of their suicide bombers had targeted the convoy of Chinese engineers and investors as they departed the airport. While the Baloch Liberation Army primarily operates in the restive Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan, they have carried out attacks on foreigners and security personnel in other regions of the country in recent years.
The Chinese Embassy in Islamabad disclosed that Chinese employees from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company were among those targeted in the convoy. Two Chinese nationals were killed, and one was injured, with additional unspecified Pakistani casualties also reported. Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the attack, labeling it a “heinous terrorist act.” They expressed condolences to the victims’ families and assured that they would work to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan denounced the attack as well, describing the perpetrators as “enemies of Pakistan” and reaffirming the country’s commitment to ensuring the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan. Pakistan is home to thousands of Chinese workers involved in various projects under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative. Balochistan, where the attack occurred, has been a hotspot for separatist activity, with groups like the Baloch Liberation Army opposing Chinese involvement in the region.
The Sunday night bombing adds to a series of violent incidents targeting foreigners in Pakistan. In recent years, the Baloch Liberation Army has been involved in assaults on Chinese interests, with previous attacks resulting in casualties. The province’s geographic and economic significance, coupled with a history of ethnic tensions, has made it a focal point for separatist movements and militant activities.
In conclusion, the attack near Karachi’s airport serves as a grim reminder of the security challenges faced by both Pakistani and Chinese nationals in the region. The incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation to counter such acts of terrorism and safeguard the lives of all individuals residing and working in Pakistan.