Deadly bomb targets Chinese convoy in southern Pakistan, ten injured
by Aditi VermaA powerful bomb blast struck a convoy transporting Chinese nationals in Pakistan resulting in at least two fatalities and ten injuries. The attack, claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army, raised concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in the region.
The incident took place near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, specifically on Shahrah-e-Faisal or close to the Airport Road area on October 6.
Visuals showed after the blast, a horrifying fire engulfed the vehicles involved in the attack, sending thick plumes of smoke into the air. The flames illuminated the scene, casting an eerie glow as they consumed the cars, turning them into charred wreckage. A crowd of onlookers had gathered at the site, their faces reflecting shock and concern. Some individuals frantically called for help, while others recorded the chaos on their phones. Traffic had begun to pile up in the area, as vehicles slowed to navigate through the chaos, creating a scene of confusion and distress against the backdrop of the burning wreckage.
The explosion, which took place in the southern port city of Karachi, specifically targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers and investors as they were departing from the international airport. Eyewitness accounts and television footage reveal that the blast caused significant damage to several vehicles in the convoy. Police officials confirmed the casualties and stated that investigations are underway to determine the specifics of the incident.
According to reports, “foreigners” were among the deceased, although officials did not immediately confirm the nationalities involved. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a recognized terrorist group by the United States, has claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting that a suicide bomber carried out the assault.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence targeting Chinese nationals in Pakistan, particularly from the BLA, which opposes Beijing’s involvement in the region’s resource extraction. In April 2022, a similar attack by the group resulted in the deaths of three Chinese teachers in Karachi.
As Pakistan prepares to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit on October 15-16, with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang scheduled for bilateral talks, the recent bombing underscores ongoing security challenges and tensions in the region.