Authorities have arrested a security guard in Karachi after he allegedly opened fire on two Chinese nationals working at a textile mill. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday in Karachi’s Sindh Industrial Trading Estate (SITE) Area, has heightened concerns over the safety of foreign nationals, particularly those working on Chinese-backed projects in Pakistan.
Security Guard Shooting Incident Details
According to the Sindh Home Department, the shooting occurred following a confrontation between Chinese nationals and security guards at a police station in the SITE Area. During this clash, the suspect, identified as Sharifullah, reportedly fired at the two Chinese men using a 9mm pistol, critically injuring both.
- Location: Sindh Industrial Trading Estate (SITE) Area, Karachi
- Time: Tuesday, November 5, 2024
- Injured: Zheng Luwen and Wang Xingzhong
- Perpetrator: Sharifullah, a security guard employed by a private security company
The incident happened at approximately 8:15 a.m. as the Chinese nationals were supervising machinery installations at the mill’s Knits department, according to the FIR submitted by security in-charge Najeebul Rab. The two employees were hurt when the guard, who had been employed at the business for several months, allegedly opened fire without warning. They were both sent urgently to Liaquat National Hospital.
Police officers collected evidence from the scene, including 16 spent bullet casings. Following the incident, the guard reportedly fled the scene with his firearm, but he was later apprehended.
Security Guard Shooting Legal Action
The Karachi police have filed charges under:
- Section 324 of the Pakistan Penal Code (attempted murder)
- Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (acts of terrorism)
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar instructed authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation to understand the motives behind the attack. He emphasized the need for a swift inquiry, ordering the arrest of those involved and stating that the facts must be clarified.
Security Guard Shooting: Prime Minister Visits Chinese Embassy to Condemn Attack
To personally denounce the attack and reassure officials of government backing, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid a visit to the Chinese Embassy in Karachi. He met with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong accompanied by Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, and Minister for Interior Mohsin Raza Naqvi.
- Prime Minister’s Remarks:
- Expressed strong condemnation of the attack on Chinese nationals
- Assured that those responsible would face “exemplary punishment”
- Highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance security for Chinese workers in Pakistan
The Chinese ambassador thanked Sharif for his prompt visit and reassurances, underscoring that safety for Chinese nationals remains a priority.
Security Guard Shooting: Rising Concerns Over Security of Chinese Nationals
For Chinese nationals in Pakistan, particularly those working on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, the event highlights growing security worries. Chinese labourers have been the victim of several instances, and officials have identified insufficient training of private security guards as a major danger factor.
- Recent Attacks:
- A suicide attack near Karachi airport last month killed two Chinese nationals
- In March, an attack in Besham led to the deaths of five Chinese workers
- In 2022, a suicide bombing at the University of Karachi killed four, including three Chinese nationals
Security Guard Shooting: Security Challenges with Private Guards
A letter from Karachi’s Deputy Inspector General of Police Syed Asad Raza to the All Pakistan Security Agencies Association (APSA) highlighted issues with private security firms. The letter cited:
- Lack of training for guards protecting foreign nationals
- Inconsistent staff changes without prior notification or orientation
- Inadequate verification of guards, with some lacking required vetting by intelligence agencies
To prevent similar incidents, the DIG recommended increased training and oversight for guards responsible for the security of foreigners, urging APSA to verify guard credentials and implement standardized training.
Security Guard Shooting: Moving Forward
The Pakistani government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the security of Chinese workers and strengthening bilateral ties with China. The prime minister assured that ongoing security reforms aim to address these risks, hoping to restore confidence among Chinese investors and partners in Pakistan’s commitment to their safety.
This incident highlights the need for improved security measures and the government’s ongoing efforts to address safety concerns in the wake of repeated violence targeting Chinese nationals.