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Sindh Police Arrest Suspects in Karachi Airport Attack Targeting Chinese Nationals
Two suspects arrested in connection with the Karachi airport attack that claimed the lives of three, including two Chinese nationals. Sindh Home Minister confirms BLA involvement, pledges to safeguard Pakistan-China ties.
ND
by News Desk
2024-11-11
Sindh Police Arrest Suspects in Karachi Airport Attack Targeting Chinese Nationals

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar announced the arrest of two suspects connected to the October 6 attack near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, which targeted a convoy of Chinese officials. The bombing, claimed by the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), resulted in three deaths — two Chinese engineers and a Pakistani — and injured at least 11 others, in what officials believe was an attempt to disrupt the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

 

During a press conference, Lanjar, accompanied by the Inspector General of Police, outlined the investigative process and recent breakthroughs. He confirmed that a high-level joint team, including Sindh’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and other law enforcement and intelligence agencies, had been formed to handle the case. Through advanced forensic methods, the team identified critical evidence, leading to the arrests of Javed, also known as Sameer, and his accomplice, Gul Nisa.

 

"On the night of the intelligence-based operation, both Javed, considered one of the masterminds, and Gul Nisa were apprehended on CD Highway near Umar Goth Chowk while riding a motorcycle,” said Lanjar. The suspects had reportedly entered Karachi from Hub, Balochistan. According to initial investigations, Javed was directly involved in the bombing, while Gul Nisa facilitated the attack.

 

The October 6 attack unfolded as a suicide bomber, identified through fingerprints as Shah Fahad, detonated an explosive-laden vehicle near a Chinese convoy, causing widespread destruction. According to Minister Lanjar, Fahad’s vehicle, purchased in September 2024 for Rs7.1 million, had been acquired in cash and registered under his name. The investigation also revealed that Fahad arrived in Karachi with an unidentified woman and stayed at a local hotel before executing the attack.

 

On the day of the bombing, the suspects reportedly surveilled the airport and rehearsed the route of the convoy. Later that evening, the suicide bomber’s final video message was sent to a BLA commander before the vehicle, laden with explosives, was detonated near the convoy, causing massive loss of life and property.

 

Sindh authorities have made the case a top priority, focusing on dismantling the network behind the bombing. Minister Lanjar acknowledged the efforts of the Sindh CTD and police in unmasking those responsible, announcing a reward of Rs50 million for their work and recommending them for prestigious awards, including the Quaid-e-Azam Police Medal and the President’s Police Medal.

 

Lanjar also confirmed that three suspects remain at large, including a key overseas mastermind, Bashir Zaid. Authorities have identified other accomplices and continue to follow leads to secure the region. In his closing remarks, Lanjar condemned the attack and assured Pakistan’s commitment to the safety of Chinese nationals in the country, recognizing the importance of the Pakistan-China relationship for regional stability.

 

"We will not tolerate any group, foreign or local, attempting to destabilize Pakistan, especially in Sindh. We’re committed to maintaining peace and protecting our citizens and allies," Lanjar stated, emphasizing the country's resolve against terrorism.

 

The arrests signify a promising step forward in the fight against terrorism as Pakistan’s law enforcement aims to safeguard not only its people but also the crucial diplomatic relationships underpinning its economic progress.

 
Tagged:

CTD

BLA

cpec

AntiTerrorism

SindhPolice

PakistanChina

KarachiAttack
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