By A suicide bombing near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi has resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals and left 17 others injured. Karachi police have identified the attacker as Shah Fahad, who registered the vehicle used in the attack under his name in early September 2023.
Details of the Attacker
Fahad, accompanied by two associates, arrived in Karachi on December 3, 2023. The group stayed at a hotel in the Preedy area before departing briefly. Fahad returned to the city on October 4, 2024, and entered another hotel at 10:47 AM. He checked out just hours before the blast occurred around noon on the same day.
Investigation and Arrests
Following the attack, authorities established a three-kilometre security perimeter around the site and detained several individuals for questioning. Investigators are looking into how sensitive information regarding the movements of Chinese engineers was leaked as part of a wider inquiry.
Claim of Responsibility
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group seeking independence for Balochistan, has claimed responsibility for the bombing. The BLA has targeted Chinese interests in the past, accusing the federal government of exploiting the resource-rich province.
Government Response
With the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit set to take place in Islamabad next week, the Pakistani government has vowed to improve security for visiting dignitaries, including Chinese officials. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured the safety of Chinese nationals in the wake of the attack, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region amid tensions in Balochistan.
