Pakistani Police Foil Suicide Bombing Targeting Japanese Nationals in Karachi

Pakistani police in Karachi successfully prevented a suicide bombing attack targeting five Japanese nationals on April 20, 2024. The incident resulted in the death of the suicide bomber and a militant accomplice, while the Japanese survivors were swiftly moved to safe police custody, according to police spokesperson Abrar Hussain Baloch.

The attack occurred when a van carrying the Japanese nationals was traveling to an industrial zone where they worked. As the vehicle slowed down, one of two motorcycle-borne attackers detonated explosives tied to his body but failed to strike the intended target. The second attacker then opened fire on the van but was killed by private security guards and a nearby police patrol.

All five Japanese nationals, who were staff members of a Japanese firm, escaped the attack unharmed. However, one Japanese national sustained a minor injury from broken glass. Three bystanders, including a security guard, were also wounded in the incident.

Police recovered a sack containing grenades and a Kalashnikov from the crime scene. No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Why this matters: The attack highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by foreign nationals working in Pakistan, particularly those associated with initiatives supported by nations like Japan and China. It underscores the need for robust security measures and international cooperation to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of expatriates in the country.

Pakistani authorities strongly condemned the attack, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praising the prompt police response that prevented major casualties. The Foreign Ministry confirmed the Japanese nationals were unharmed and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to ensuring the safety of foreign nationals in the country. "Pakistan remains committed to fighting terrorism," the ministry stated. The Japanese government issued an alert to its citizens living in Pakistan in response to the attack.

Key Takeaways

• Pakistani police foiled a suicide bombing targeting 5 Japanese nationals in Karachi.
• The attack killed the suicide bomber and an accomplice, while the Japanese escaped unharmed.
• Police recovered grenades and a Kalashnikov from the crime scene, but no group claimed responsibility.
• The attack underscores security challenges for foreign nationals in Pakistan, especially those linked to initiatives by Japan and China.
• Pakistan condemned the attack and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of foreign nationals.