Shangla: In a devastating incident in Shangla’s Besham city, at least six individuals, including five Chinese engineers, lost their lives as their vehicle fell victim to a terrorist attack, announced Malakand’s deputy inspector general of police (DIG) on Tuesday.
Confirming the casualties, the DIG revealed that a suicide bomber rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into the car carrying the Chinese nationals. Tragically, a Pakistani driver who was operating the vehicle sustained injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, the driver succumbed to his wounds.
Among the deceased Chinese engineers was a woman, as reported by Geo News. The engineers were en route from Islamabad to Dasu camp in Kohistan when the attack occurred.
Following the tragic event, a significant deployment of security personnel swiftly arrived at the scene, cordoning off the area. Security forces initiated a thorough search operation in the vicinity to apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the heinous act.
Authorities swiftly restricted traffic movement on Shahrah-e-Karakoram between Besham and Kohistan in response to the incident.
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In a show of solidarity and swift action, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the Chinese embassy in Islamabad, briefing the ambassador on the attack and the unfortunate loss of lives. Naqvi also provided updates on the ongoing rescue operations at the site.
Expressing profound condolences, Naqvi underscored the unwavering support of the entire Pakistani nation during this period of mourning. He reiterated the government’s firm resolve to deal decisively with those behind the attack, emphasizing the importance of preserving the enduring bond between Pakistan and China.
Condemnations poured in from various quarters in response to the cowardly act of terrorism. President Asif Ali Zardari vehemently denounced the attack, reaffirming the resilience of Pakistan-China friendship against any malicious designs.
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Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulber Khan condemned the attack as a malevolent scheme aimed at undermining the strong ties between Pakistan and China.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also condemned the act of terrorism and extended heartfelt condolences to the Chinese government. He urged Pakistani authorities to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice and expressed solidarity with the bereaved families.
Joining the chorus of condemnation, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Ali Amin Gandapur, KP Governor Ghulam Ali, Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah, ANP KP President Aimal Wali Khan, and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab all unequivocally denounced the attack, underscoring the need for collective resolve against terrorism.
