Smoke rises after the attack: EXPRESS

KARACHI: A terror attack on the Chinese consulate situated in the posh Clifton locality of the port city was foiled by security forces on Friday. All staff members of the foreign mission were reported safe in the attack.

Two policemen were martyred in an exchange of fire with the terrorists. All three attackers were also killed in the ensuing gunfight with security forces.

DIG South Javeed Alam Odho elaborated that a terrorist with suicide vest was gunned down by security forces and the other two were also killed in the ensuing gunfight. A female police officer, SSP Suhai Talpur, led the operation against the terrorists.

A suicide jacket, arms and ammunition were recovered from the attackers.

Bodies and injured were shifted to Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Centre. Dr Seemi Jamali said the condition of a security guard wounded in the attack is critical.

Map of the area.

The attackers tried to enter the foreign mission’s premises, said police officials. Heavy gunfire was heard in the area and an explosion was also reported. A large contingent of police, Rangers and other security forces reached the area soon after the attack was reported.

Security forces take cover behind a guard post. – Photo: REUTERS

A heavy contingent of security forces cordoned off the area and a search operation was launched after the attack. The security of all other sensitive installations was tightened following the attack.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) also confirmed that three terrorists tried to enter the consulate. All of them were killed in a joint-security operation by Sindh Rangers and police.

Security personnel stand next to burned out vehicles in front of the Chinese consulate after an attack. -Photo: AFP

Briefing the participants on the security operation, IG Imam said evidence linked the attack to the proscribed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

‘All Chinese officials and staff safe’

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi confirmed that all Chinese officials and other staff were safe in the attack.

Apprising the media on the situation, Qureshi said security forces had killed all three terrorists and secured the area. “Our priority was to secure the lives of citizens and the consulate staff. The terrorists could not take any hostage, kill or injured anyone.”

The foreign minister said it was premature to say who was behind the attack. “Those who do not want to see Pakistan progress were behind this act.”

Asserting that the friendship between Pakistan and China was everlasting, the foreign minister said enemy forces were attempting to create obstacles. “We are in touch with the Chinese ambassador. I will appraise their foreign minister on the matter as well.”

The attack was also strongly condemned by China.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has taken notice of the ongoing situation. Sindh Governor Imran Ismail has also sought a report on the incident from the provincial police chief.

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