In a deadly escalation of violence, a massive explosion rocked Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport late Sunday night, killing two Chinese nationals and injuring several others, including Pakistani citizens. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted a convoy carrying Chinese workers from the Port Qasim Electric Power Company.
The blast, which shook nearby airport buildings and caused vehicles to catch fire, was reportedly caused by a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED). Social media videos captured flames and a thick column of smoke rising from the site.
A massive explosion struck a high-security convoy near Karachi airport, engulfing multiple vehicles, including those of security forces, in flames. pic.twitter.com/dymz0D8kXd
— Mamoon Durrani 🇦🇫 مامون دُرانی (@MamoonDurrani) October 6, 2024
China’s embassy in Pakistan swiftly condemned the incident, labelling it a “terrorist act” and urging Pakistani authorities to investigate thoroughly and punish those responsibly. The embassy also advised Chinese nationals in Pakistan to remain vigilant and enhance their security measures.
The BLA, which opposes Chinese investments in Pakistan, particularly under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has carried out several attacks targeting Chinese nationals and infrastructure. In August 2024, the group coordinated a series of violent assaults in Balochistan, killing over 70 people.
This deadly attack marks another grim episode in the series of rising threats against Chinese citizens in Pakistan, highlighting the growing insecurity in the region. As violence against foreign nationals intensifies, there are increasing concerns about the impact on China-Pakistan relations and Beijing’s multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects under CPEC.
With the BLA escalating its attacks, the Pakistani government faces mounting pressure to safeguard foreign workers and maintain stability amid growing militant threats in the country.
