Four Pakistani soldiers were killed after heavily armed militants attacked a Sindh Rangers compound in Karachi on Saturday night, triggering a 90-minute gun battle with security forces.
Authorities said the attackers used an explosives-laden vehicle to breach the compound before opening indiscriminate fire and throwing hand grenades inside the premises.
Security forces later neutralised six attackers and captured one injured suspect during the operation.
How the Karachi Terror Attack Unfolded
According to officials, the attack began at around 8:30 pm when an explosives-filled vehicle rammed into the main entrance of the Sindh Rangers facility in Karachi.
The explosion breached the compound, allowing the attackers to enter the premises.
Witnesses reported multiple blasts and continuous gunfire as security personnel responded immediately to the assault.
Emergency teams from Rescue 1122 Sindh were dispatched after receiving reports of a major explosion near Gulistan-e-Jauhar Block 5.
90-Minute Gun Battle
Security agencies quickly sealed the Rangers compound and nearby roads while urging residents to remain indoors.
Several surrounding neighbourhoods reportedly experienced temporary power outages during the security operation.
The exchange of fire lasted for approximately 90 minutes.
Personnel from the Sindh Rangers, the Special Security Unit (SSU) and the Anti-Terrorist Force (ATF) jointly carried out the counter-operation.
According to officials, six militants were killed and one injured attacker was taken into custody.
Four Rangers personnel lost their lives during the assault.
Officials Describe the Attack
Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho said preliminary investigations indicate that the attackers entered the compound after crashing a vehicle into the main gate.
He added that security personnel responded rapidly, limiting further damage and casualties.
Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the full sequence of events and whether additional individuals were involved in planning the attack.
Who Are Jamaat-ul-Ahrar?
Security officials identified the attackers as members of Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a militant faction linked to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
The group has primarily operated in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and has been responsible for attacks targeting civilians, security forces and government institutions.
Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban administration of allowing TTP militants to operate from Afghan territory. The Afghan Taliban has denied those allegations.
Karachi’s History of Militant Attacks
Karachi has witnessed several high-profile militant attacks over the past decade.
One of the most significant incidents occurred in February 2023 when militants stormed the Karachi Police Office, leading to multiple casualties and an extended security operation.
Saturday’s attack highlights the continuing security challenges faced by Pakistan despite ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Investigation Underway
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has directed senior police officials to submit a detailed report on the incident.
Investigators are examining the planning, execution and support network behind the attack while security has been strengthened across Karachi as a precaution.
