A powerful explosion outside Karachi Airport on Sunday claimed the lives of two people and injured at least eight, according to officials, CNN reports.
While authorities initially reported the incident as a tanker explosion, the provincial home minister, Zia Ul Hassan, stated that it was an attack targeting foreigners. A Home Ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the attack was specifically aimed at Chinese nationals, with one individual sustaining injuries.
Thousands of Chinese workers are currently in Pakistan, many involved in Beijing’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, a multibillion-dollar project connecting south and central Asia with China.
Videos circulating online captured the aftermath of the explosion, showcasing flames engulfing vehicles and a thick plume of smoke billowing into the air. Heavy military presence was immediately deployed to the site, which was subsequently cordoned off.
Deputy Inspector General East Azfar Mahesar told media that initial investigations suggest the incident was caused by an oil tanker explosion.
