KARACHI: A prompt response from the security agencies Friday morning has successfully repelled the attack on Chinese Consulate in Karachi.
Two police guards posted embraced martyrdom during exchange of fire with the militants. A father and son duo, who had come from Quetta for visa, succumbed to the injuries.
At least three attackers attempted to enter the Consulate and were intercepted by the security guards at a checkpoint.
Deputy Consul General confirmed to The News that 'everyone is safe inside the building'.
Karachi Police Chief, Dr Amir Shaikh told media that three attackers managed to enter the premises of the Consulate but could not enter the compound. All three of them were killed during operation by the law enforcement agencies.
He said the attackers came in a car filled with explosives but failed to get inside the heavily fortified compound.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that all attempts to sabotage the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will be defeated.
"China & Pakistan share a friendship higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the deepest seas. The criminal minds behind this dastardly attack will be brought to justice, he further added.
The police have confirmed that one attacker was wearing suicide jacket.
The consulate is situated in Karachi's Clifton Block 4.
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said all 21 Chinese nationals were safe and that he has talked to the Chinese Envoy after the incident. The envoy was satisfied with all the measures taken by the authorities.
Talking to Geo TV, The News Sports Editor Khalid Hussain, who lives near the consulate, said we heard gunshots a few minutes ago but could not verify what has happened.
Security has been heightened around the building and a large number of police and Rangers personnel were present at the spot.
Taking notice of the incident, Sindh CM Syed Murad Ali Shah directed the police officials to take all the necessary steps to ensure security of the consulate.
The CM visited the Consulate and met with the Consul General where they were briefed by the police authorities on the incident.
AFP adds:
A banned separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army has claimed the responsibility of the attack.
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