A terror attack targeting the Chinese Consulate situated in Karachi’s Clifton area was foiled by security forces on Friday.
VIDEO COURTESY: DAWNNEWS TV
Two policemen lost their lives during an exchange of fire between security forces and the attackers, while a Chinese security guard was injured, Dr Seemin Jamali, JPMC Executive Director, told media.
Three terrorists were killed in the operation, according to Sindh Police and the army’s media wing.
The heavily-guarded E-Street neighbourhood, which is considered a red zone, is home to a number of upscale restaurants, diplomatic missions and schools. The schools and eateries have been locked down until a clearance operation is concluded.
Gunshots and an explosion were heard in the area at 9:30am. The attackers first opened fire at a checkpost, then detonated a hand grenade in the area, a local TV reported.
Additional Inspector General (AIG) Amir Shaikh said that the attackers had parked their vehicle at some distance from the embassy before moving towards it.
Defence analyst and security contractor Ikram Sehgal, whose company’s guards have been posted at the consulate, said that the attackers engaged in an exchange of fire with policemen.
After the policemen were martyred, he said, the attackers proceeded towards the gate of the consulate. However, the guards were quick to usher civilians with consular business into the building and shut the gates behind them.
Chinese staff at the embassy were taken to a main building, Sehgal added.
Muhammad Ashfaq, a police official quoted by the Associated Press, said that the attackers opened fire at the consulate guards and then managed to breach the main gate and enter the building.
Shortly after, the Rangers arrived in the area and an exchange of fire took place between security forces and the attackers, leaving three terrorists killed. Weapons and explosive materials were recovered from the attackers, police said.
Police and Rangers began a combined operation in the area, and the Bomb Disposal Squad began conducting a sweep to ensure there are no more explosive materials in the area.
Police said that all Chinese staffers “are safe and secure”. The security situation has been brought under control and all areas will soon be cleared, they added, and police have been deployed inside the consulate.
The Foreign Office spokesman said that Islamabad is “in touch with the relevant agencies and will react quickly” to ascertain the facts.
AIG Shaikh said he would be able to provide a clearer account of the attack later today.
‘In touch with Chinese officials’
Sindh police chief Syed Kaleem Imam and Chief Minister Murad Shah both reached the Chinese Consulate following the terror attack.
IGP Imam briefed the Chinese consul general about the successful combined operation conducted by security forces.
