Locations Affected: Pakistan
A suicide blast near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi killed two Chinese nationals and injured one on 06 October. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility, stating it targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers. Sixteen others were injured in the explosion, which set vehicles on fire. Pakistan’s Prime Minister condemned the attack, vowing to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens.
BLA’s attacks against Chinese projects
The BLA is a group seeking independence for the Balochistan province and opposes growing Chinese involvement in the region, particularly at the port of Gwadar, a key component of the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Separatist groups have frequently targeted Chinese nationals involved in development projects in Pakistan, including the attack on the Dasu hydropower plant project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in March 2024, which resulted in the deaths of five Chinese nationals, and in August 2023 when BLA militants opened fire on a Pakistani military convoy in Gwadar as it was escorting a delegation of Chinese nationals to a construction project. Two militants were killed and no harm was caused to any military personnel or civilians, according to the Pakistani military.
Impact of the explosion
- The attack occurred on the Model Colony Road. Ten vehicles were damaged due to the blast.
- Roads leading to the Jinnah International Airport were closed after the attack. A three-kilometre security perimeter has been established by authorities around the blast site,
- The BLA stated that the attack was executed using a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device.
- According to the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), there were no disruptions to flight operations at the Karachi airport.
- The Chinese embassy has condemned the attack and asked for Pakistan to conduct a thorough investigation. It has advised Chinese citizens and enterprises in Pakistan to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions.
- Officials have begun investigations into the blast. The Karachi police have identified the attacker responsible for the explosion and taken several individuals into custody for questioning.
Potential disruptions and security measures
Heightened security measures are expected near the explosion site and around Karachi airport. Additional security measures may also be in place during Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang’s visit on 14 October and the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit scheduled from 15-16 October in Islamabad. Traffic disruptions may continue around Model Colony Road and surrounding areas of the airport. Further, continued unrest may strain relations between China and Pakistan and challenge future foreign investments in the region. Organizations are advised to stay informed of the situation and prepare necessary contingency plans.
