Staff Report
KARACHI: Law enforcement agencies (LEAs) cleared the five-story office of the city’s police chief on Friday night after nearly a four-hour operation — weeks after a deadly attack in Peshawar’s Police Lines.
At least three terrorists blew themselves, while two were killed in the shootout as they swept the office situated on the main artery of Sharea Faisal.
Four people, including police and Rangers officials, also lost their lives, and 18 people were injured, officials said, the latest attack on security forces.
Strong sought against militants after Karachi attack
The attack invited strong criticism from top government officials; however, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that “condemnations are not enough” and strict action must be taken against militants.
The attack began at 7:10 pm, while police and Rangers cleared the five-story building in phases, finally sweeping the entire office by around 10:46 pm.
A police officer said that the attackers entered the office wearing police uniforms — a tactic similar to the Peshawar mosque suicide blast that claimed the lives of over 80 people.
Meanwhile, in a statement, Islamabad IG Akbar Nasir Khan confirmed that security had been put on high alert in the federal capital, and all police officers have been instructed to stay in their respective areas.
“Checking at exit and entry points and inside the city has been increased,” IG said, adding that officials have been ordered to keep all crucial buildings and Red Zone on high alert.
