Oil tanker explosion near Karachi airport kills two, injures 10

An oil tanker explosion near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi killed two people and injured 10 others, including security personnel, according to police on Sunday. The blast also destroyed three cars and four motorcycles.

The explosion, which occurred near the airport signal, was heard from a distance, causing panic among residents who rushed out of their homes. Rangers and police swiftly cordoned off the area, while fire brigade teams arrived at the scene to extinguish the flames.

After an hour-long effort, the fire was brought under control. The explosion led to severe traffic congestion on Sharea Faisal near the airport, as traffic police worked to restore the flow of vehicles.

Rescue officials confirmed the casualties. Three security guards, two Rangers, a police officer, a foreign national, and three civilians were among those injured in the incident. The foreign national was transferred to a private hospital.

Teams from the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Bomb Disposal Squad were dispatched to gather evidence from the site.

Sindh Home Minister Zia Hassan Lanjhar, while speaking to a private news channel, stated that the explosion was a terrorist attack targeting a car carrying a foreign national, who was among the injured.

"Terrorists aimed at a foreign vehicle, and we are investigating from all angles," said SSP Malir Kashif Abbasi.

Following the blast, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah demanded a report from the police chief. He also directed authorities to ensure that the injured received the best possible medical care.

In a statement, the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) said that airport buildings and assets remained safe in the incident. Flight schedules at the airport are continuing as normal.

The director general of PAA has assured full cooperation for rescue operations. 

Authorities continue to investigate the incident, with security heightened in the area.