The preliminary investigation into the recent attack on foreign nationals in Landhi's Mansehra Colony in Karachi has unveiled shocking revelations, with evidence of the potential involvement of a neighbouring country in the heinous act.
According to Raja Umar Khattab, the in-charge of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), initial findings suggest the involvement of a separatist organization in the suicide attack. The incident, which resulted in casualties, is believed to have been carried out by a group of three to five terrorists, one of whom blew himself up.
Key investigative sources revealed that the slain terrorist, identified as Sohail Ahmed, hailed from Panjgur, Balochistan. He, along with an accomplice, arrived at the scene on a motorcycle and waited for some time to carry out the attack.
The preliminary report reveals that neighbouring countries fund separatist terrorist groups, adding that the terrorists carried out the attack after a recce of two weeks. "It seems that the terrorists stayed near the place of attack," it further notes.
Footage from the crime scene depicts the terrorists, clad in suicide jackets, parking the motorcycle and patiently awaiting the arrival of their target vehicle. Upon its approach, one of the terrorists ran towards it and detonated the explosive device.
Also Read: Three killed in suicide attack on foreign nationals in Karachi
Khattab added that the targeted foreigners were travelling in three vehicles and all of them remained safe. "The vehicles were attacked when they slowed down at a speed breaker," he added.
It is suspected that the attackers had been monitoring the area for several weeks prior to the incident, indicating meticulous planning and preparation. The investigation further revealed that the terrorists initiated the attack by chasing the targeted vehicle from Qayyumabad.
Despite the swift response of security guards and law enforcement agencies, the perpetrators managed to flee the scene. However, a mobile phone recovered from the deceased terrorist has been confiscated by a sensitive agency for further analysis.
Moreover, the motorcycle used in the attack was found registered in the name of Salman Masih, raising additional questions regarding potential accomplices and logistical support.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are intensifying efforts to gather more details and apprehend all individuals involved in the heinous act. The incident underscores the grave threat posed by terrorism and the need for enhanced security measures to safeguard against such attacks in the future.
