- Enhanced Security Measures: Following a terrorist attack near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport that killed two Chinese nationals and a Pakistani, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has implemented stricter entry protocols, requiring visitors to present a traveler’s ticket copy and a CNIC, with a limit of four people accompanying each passenger.
- Arrests and Investigation Findings: The Sindh Home Minister announced the arrest of the attack’s mastermind, Javed, and key accomplices, including a female facilitator. The investigation revealed the use of an explosive-laden vehicle and involvement of the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which claimed responsibility for the attack.
- Broader Terror Network and Commendations: Authorities uncovered a wider terror network extending to Balochistan and beyond. The Sindh government recognized the efforts of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and announced a Rs50 million reward for successfully apprehending the key suspects involved in the case.
In response to a recent terrorist attack near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has introduced stricter entry protocols to bolster security at one of the country’s key transport hubs.
The attack occurred last month when a powerful explosion struck a road near the airport, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals, including two Chinese nationals, and injuring at least 16 others.
Following this incident, the police and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) acted swiftly, arresting three suspects, including a woman, believed to be involved in the bombing, as per Sindh Home Minister Zia Ul Hassan Lanjar.
Under the new directives, visitors to the airport will face tighter scrutiny. Only individuals carrying a copy of the traveler’s ticket will be allowed entry at security checkpoints, and no more than four people may accompany a passenger.
Additionally, those coming to pick up passengers must present their National Identity Card (CNIC) for verification before entering the premises. These measures, aimed at enhancing security, are set to be enforced immediately with rigorous checks by airport security personnel.
Arrests Made in Connection with the Attack on Chinese Nationals
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar recently announced the arrest of the mastermind behind the attack on a Chinese convoy near Karachi airport. In a press conference, Lanjar detailed that four facilitators linked to the attack were also apprehended.
On October 6, 2024, the convoy of Chinese nationals, arriving from abroad, was ambushed near Quaid-e-Azam International Airport at approximately 11 PM. The assault led to the deaths of two Chinese citizens and a Pakistani, injuring 21 others. A fire ensued, damaging several vehicles, including those in the convoy. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a banned terrorist organization, claimed responsibility for the attack via social media.
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Investigation Details and Findings
The Counter-Terrorism Department of Sindh, while investigating the blast site, recovered the chassis and number plate of the vehicle used in the explosion, along with a severed hand belonging to the bomber, later identified as Fahad. The BLA shared a video of Fahad, confirming his involvement.
Further investigations revealed that Fahad had been assisted by two accomplices: Farhan, a rickshaw driver, and Muhammad Sharif, who helped purchase the vehicle for the attack. Records from the Excise and IG Office confirmed that the car was bought by Fahad for Rs7.1 million from a showroom in Karachi. The transaction involved two individuals, Saeed Ali and Bilal, a bank employee from Hub. The vehicle, later filled with around 40 to 42 kilograms of explosives including RDX and a chemical known as ‘pent,’ was transported to Karachi on October 4, 2024, using the S-4 route.
The Mastermind and the Operation Plan
The mastermind, identified as Javed, planned the attack meticulously. He stayed at a local hotel in Saddar, Karachi, and conducted reconnaissance at the airport. On the night of October 6, Javed and his team, including bomber Fahad, left the hotel, collected their accomplices, and parked in a lot opposite the Marriott Hotel. There, they recorded a final video of Fahad for the BLA.
At approximately 9 PM, the attackers made their way to the airport. Javed moved to the first floor, while the bomb operators stayed with Fahad. Around 11 PM, Javed informed his team of the Chinese nationals’ movement, leading to the execution of the attack at 11:02 PM.
Ongoing Investigations and Further Arrests
Lanjar disclosed that Danish, another suspect involved in the attack, remains at large. However, the CTD successfully apprehended the mastermind Javed, known by aliases Sami and Samir, along with female facilitator Gul Nisa near Umar Goth Chowk, Karachi, on November 10, 2024. The two were intercepted while traveling from Hub on a motorcycle.
The investigation also revealed a wider network of terrorists linked to the BLA, extending into Balochistan and beyond Pakistan’s borders. A prominent BLA leader, Basheer Zaib, is believed to be operating from abroad, with another key figure, Gul Rehman, also absconding. Authorities are continuing their efforts to trace an additional suspect identified by the codename ‘Washne.’
Commendations for the Successful Operation
The Sindh Home Minister praised IGP Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon and his team for their swift and effective action, announcing a reward of Rs50 million for the CTD and its officers. The successful conclusion of this high-profile case marks a significant step in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region.
With these recent arrests and enhanced security measures, authorities hope to prevent future attacks and ensure the safety of both passengers and airport personnel.
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