Karachi terror attack kills four as gunmen storm Pakistan Rangers compound

Terrorists rammed a vehicle into a Pakistan Rangers compound in Karachi and opened fire. The assault killed four personnel, disrupted the area and triggered a prolonged counter-operation.

In Short

• The compound in Gulistan-e-Jauhar was sealed as firing continued late
• Special Security Unit commandos and anti-terror teams rushed to the scene
• Investigators said attackers rammed the main gate before entering the premises

At least four paramilitary personnel were killed after terrorists rammed a vehicle into a Pakistan Rangers compound and stormed the facility in Karachi on Saturday, officials said. The attack took place at the Sindh Paramilitary Rangers compound in the heavily populated Gulistan-e-Jauhar area, and a heavy exchange of gunfire was still under way at the time of reporting.

No terrorist or separatist group had claimed responsibility for the attack. The compound was cordoned off, adjoining roads were closed to the public, and transport movement was stopped. Special Security Unit commandos and the Anti-Terrorist Force had reached the spot, while residents in the area were asked to remain inside their homes.

According to a security source, four to six terrorists attacked the compound at around 8.30 pm and were engaged in a gun battle inside the premises. "So far, we know four Rangers personnel have been killed in the attack and some vehicles destroyed as the compound also serves as a transport hub of the Rangers," he said.

Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho said initial investigations suggested that the terrorists arrived in a vehicle and entered the compound by ramming the main gate. He said an explosion was heard when the attack began, but its cause had not been determined yet. "What is confirmed is that as soon as the attack took place, the Rangers personnel immediately took positions and engaged these attackers in a gun battle," he said, adding that more information was being collected.

A resident said the authorities had instructed people to stay inside their houses, and some residential buildings and areas were without power. The attack on the Rangers compound left at least four personnel dead, damaged vehicles in the facility, and triggered a continuing security operation in the area, with no group yet claiming responsibility.

With PTI Inputs

- Ends