Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promises swift action against those responsible for the deadly bombing that killed two Chinese nationals in Karachi

In the wake of a tragic bombing near Karachi airport that claimed the lives of two Chinese nationals, Pakistani authorities have vowed to hunt down the perpetrators. The attack, which occurred on Sunday, resulted in three fatalities and left over a dozen injured. The Majeed Brigade of the Baloch Liberation Army, a banned separatist group, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif responded swiftly to the incident, assuring Chinese officials that Pakistan is committed to bringing those responsible to justice. During a visit to the Chinese embassy on Monday, he expressed condolences to Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and assured him that the investigation is underway. “Pakistan stands committed to safeguarding our Chinese friends. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure their security and well-being,” he stated.

The Prime Minister’s visit to the embassy was a direct response to Beijing’s demands for immediate action following the attack. He pledged to personally oversee the investigation and reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to enhancing security for foreign nationals in the country.

The Foreign Office echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, condemning the attack as a “heinous terrorist act.” Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch affirmed that Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies are fully mobilised to track down the attackers. “This barbaric act will not go unpunished,” she declared, emphasising the commitment to holding the Majeed Brigade accountable.

In China, the Foreign Ministry called for a thorough investigation and swift punishment for the attackers. “China is deeply shocked by the attack against Chinese citizens,” a spokesperson stated, urging Pakistan to take decisive action to protect the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and its citizens. The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan has since advised its nationals to increase their security measures.

The recent bombing follows a concerning trend of violence against Chinese workers in Pakistan, including previous incidents at a hydroelectric power plant in Bisham and a bombing at Karachi University. These attacks have led to intensified demands from Beijing for improved security and compensation for victims’ families. Chinese officials have made it clear that future cooperation on major projects is contingent upon Pakistan’s ability to address these pressing security concerns.

The timing of the attack is particularly sensitive, as it comes just days before Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang’s visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation conference scheduled for October 15-16. This visit highlights the importance of Chinese investment and infrastructure projects in Pakistan, making the need for effective security measures more critical than ever.

Investigators have concluded that the deadly explosion was caused by a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (IED) containing approximately 70-80 kg of explosives. The alleged suicide bomber, identified as Shah Fahad from Balochistan, had arrived in Karachi shortly before the attack and checked into a local hotel. The police reported that the bodies of the two Chinese nationals were transferred to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for autopsy, alongside the remains of the suspected bomber.

In the aftermath of the explosion, vehicles in the vicinity caught fire, resulting in extensive damage. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has called for the formation of a joint committee comprising police and law enforcement officials to investigate the incident thoroughly.

The tragic loss of life and the implications for security in Pakistan have left the nation grappling with the need to ensure the safety of foreign nationals while fostering international partnerships. As investigations continue, the Pakistani government is under immense pressure to demonstrate its commitment to counterterrorism efforts and protect its allies.