ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN – A suicide bombing in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region has claimed the lives of five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver. The workers were traveling to the Dasu hydroelectric dam project, a major development being constructed by a Chinese company.
The attack occurred on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024. Initial reports state that a suicide bomber detonated an explosives-laden vehicle as it rammed into the convoy carrying the Chinese engineers. Local police officials have confirmed the fatalities.
China Condemns Attack
The Chinese embassy in Islamabad has issued a strong condemnation of the attack, expressing deep condolences to the victims’ families. Chinese authorities have called on Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Security Concerns Escalate
This attack raises serious security concerns for the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), of which the Dasu Dam is a key part. CPEC projects have faced violence in the past, with militants targeting Chinese workers. Pakistani authorities have pledged to increase security measures for Chinese nationals working in the country.
Details of Blast in Pakistan
- Location: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, northwest Pakistan.
- Date: March 26th, 2024
- Victims: Five Chinese engineers, and one Pakistani driver.
- Attack Type: Suicide car bombing.
- Suspected Perpetrators: Investigation ongoing, no group has claimed responsibility.
Ongoing Coverage
This is a developing story. Updates are expected as further information becomes available and Pakistani and Chinese authorities launch investigations.
Tirri Venkat Vinod