Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
Two Chinese Nationals Killed in Karachi Blast
A suicide attack near Karachi airport on Sunday night left two Chinese nationals dead and at least 10 people injured. The explosion occurred near a convoy of Chinese engineers working on a power project in Sindh province. Local authorities confirmed that the third body found at the site is suspected to be that of the attacker.
BLA Claims Responsibility for Suicide Attack
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group active in Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, the group said they had "targeted a high-level convoy of Chinese engineers and investors" arriving from Karachi airport. The BLA later confirmed that it was a suicide attack carried out by a member of their Majeed Brigade named Shah Fahad, using a vehicle borne improvised explosive device (VBIED).
Chinese Embassy Condemns Attack, Urges Increased Security
The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan condemned the explosion, calling it a "terrorist attack" aimed at Chinese nationals involved in development projects. The embassy advised all Chinese citizens and companies in Pakistan to increase their security measures and take necessary precautions. They also called on Pakistani authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice.
Prime Minister Sharif Vows to Protect Chinese Workers
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack as a "heinous act" and offered his condolences to the families of the victims. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding Chinese nationals working in the country, a sentiment he expressed via a post on social media platform X.
Baloch Separatists Target Development Projects and Foreign Nationals
The BLA has been involved in a long running insurgency in Balochistan, a resource rich region in Pakistan. The group has often targeted Chinese nationals due to China’s involvement in major infrastructure projects there, which the insurgents claim do not benefit the local Baloch population. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative, has been a frequent target of such attacks.
Attack Involves Explosive Laden Vehicle Near Karachi Airport
The blast occurred around 23:00 local time (17:00 GMT), with a large explosion rocking the vicinity of Karachi's Jinnah International Airport. The attacker reportedly used an explosive-laden tanker truck, causing widespread damage. The explosion left several vehicles destroyed, with footage showing thick smoke and charred remains of cars.
Ongoing Insurgency by Baloch Separatists Against Chinese Investments
Chinese nationals, who are heavily involved in various infrastructure projects in Pakistan, have become a frequent target of BLA attacks in recent years. The group argues that locals are being deprived of the economic benefits from foreign investment in the province’s natural resources, such as gas and minerals.
Increased Security Ahead of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Pakistan
The incident occurred as Pakistan prepared to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, with heightened security in place across the country. Authorities have ramped up security measures around Chinese projects and personnel, particularly in volatile regions like Balochistan.
This attack adds to a series of assaults against Chinese nationals in Pakistan, including the bombing at Karachi University in 2022 and an attack on the Chinese consulate in 2018. The persistent threats highlight the continued instability in the region and the risks associated with foreign investment in high conflict zones.
