Karachi Airport Blast Claims Two Lives, Injures Eleven

On a fateful Sunday night, Karachi was rocked by a massive explosion near the airport, resulting in the tragic loss of at least two lives and leaving 11 others injured, including a foreign national. The blast sent shockwaves throughout the city, with reports indicating that the sound could be heard as far away as Clifton. Initial investigations have led to conflicting reports, with officials debating whether the explosion was caused by an "IED blast" or a collision involving a vehicle and an oil tanker.

Emergency responders, including rescue workers, firefighters, and security officials, quickly arrived at the scene to assess the damage and assist the injured. Footage from the site revealed several vehicles engulfed in flames, highlighting the severity of the incident. The Bomb Disposal Squad has been deployed to determine the exact nature of the explosion, but officials have cautioned that it may take time to reach a definitive conclusion.

Deputy Inspector General (East) Capt (retd) Azfar Mahesar confirmed the fatalities and reported that the explosion had destroyed seven vehicles. He emphasized the need for forensic analysis before making any concrete statements regarding the cause of the explosion, whether it was an act of terror or an unfortunate accident.

In a statement that has yet to be independently verified, the outlawed Majeed Brigade of the Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack. Meanwhile, police sources reported that among the injured were a police constable and a woman, with victims ranging in age from 28 to 51 years old.

In response to the explosion, the Airports Security Force promptly sealed off the airport's entry and exit points, while traffic police closed the road leading to the airport from the Model Colony graveyard. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took immediate notice of the incident, directing police to ensure the safety of citizens and to clear the roads to prevent any inconvenience for passengers.

Despite the chaos, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) assured the public that all its assets were safe and that flights were operating as scheduled. Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, speaking to reporters at the scene, urged caution and advised against speculation as investigations continued. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar, who also visited the site, indicated that preliminary information suggested the explosion was caused by an IED blast, coinciding with a convoy of foreign nationals passing through the area.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges faced by urban centers like Karachi. As investigations unfold, it is crucial for authorities to ensure the safety of citizens and to address the underlying issues that contribute to such violence. The community's resilience will be tested, but it is essential to remain vigilant and united in the face of adversity.