Pakistani forces eliminate militants linked to November 2024 attack on Chinese workers

In Karachi, Pakistan, during an overnight raid, security forces successfully killed three suspected militants accused of being involved in a violent attack on Chinese nationals last November. The operation targeted individuals connected to an incident where two Chinese citizens were injured while working at a textile mill. Officials confirmed that among the dead was Zafran, identified as the mastermind behind the attack. He has affiliations with the Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a faction that has been increasingly prominent since the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan in 2021. This operation comes amid growing concerns from China regarding the safety of its nationals involved in several large infrastructure projects in Pakistan, notably under the Belt and Road Initiative. Chinese nationals have encountered escalating threats and violence from militant organizations, including the TTP and the Balochistan Liberation Army, both of which are classified as terrorist groups by the US. The Pakistani government has responded to these attacks by committing to enhance protective measures for foreign workers, particularly those employed in economically significant ventures such as factories and construction sites. The urgency for security is underscored by the increasing incidents of violence against Chinese workers, raising alarms about the potential impact on bilateral relations and investments. Meanwhile, fresh violence erupted in the Tirah Valley region, resulting in at least seven fatalities when local civilians protested for justice following the death of a child in a mortar attack. This situation further exemplifies the persistent instability in the region and the challenge faced by security forces in safeguarding citizens and foreign workers alike.