LIVE: Firing, blasts heard at Karachi airport once again: Karachi airport attack signals tactical shift by Taliban

Thu, Jun 12 06:39 AM EDT By Syed Raza Hassan KARACHI (Reuters) - It was the shoes that betrayed Corporal Faiz Mohammad's would-be killers. When 10 Taliban militants attacked Pakistan's busiest airport on Sunday night, sparking a five-hour gun battle that killed at least 34 people, Mohammad and his fellow officers from the Airports Security Force (ASF) were the first line of defense. "There was a moment of confusion because the militants had the same ASF uniforms as us," said Mohammad, 30. "But then we saw their shoes." ASF officers wear black leather shoes, but the men who stormed Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan's chaotic commercial capital, wore white-soled sneakers. All 10 militants were dead by dawn, shot down by the security forces or blown up by their own suicide vests. That the Taliban failed in its main objective - to hijack an aircraft and hold its passengers hostage - should bring no comfort to embattled Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, since the attack signals an alarming shift in tactics by an increasingly formidable foe. The strike at the airport in Karachi, home to 18 million people, deals a blow to Sharif's bid to attract foreign investors to revive the economy. It has also destroyed prospects for peace talks with the Taliban and made an all-out military offensive against militant strongholds along the Afghan border a near-certainty. Government air strikes on the strongholds in the North Waziristan region triggered the tactical shift, said sources at Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), as the Pakistani Taliban is formally known. Angered by the raids and anticipating a ground assault, the militants are targeting Pakistan's heartland. A top Taliban commander confirmed to Reuters that attacks involving aircraft were part of a new strategy to counter the government's preparations for a full-scale operation against them in North Waziristan. "We decided to change our strategy and hit their main economic centers," he said. "They will kill innocent people by their bombs and we will hit their nerve-centers in major cities." Tariq Azeem, a senior official in Sharif’s administration, said a full-scale military operation was imminent in North Waziristan, and seemed resigned to it sparking terror attacks elsewhere in Pakistan. "Everybody knows there is going to be blowback," he said. PATTERN OF MUMBAI, WESTGATE MALL The Taliban is most likely to rely on small militant teams, emulating the protracted, high-impact operations like those in Mumbai in 2008 and Nairobi's Westgate mall last year. "In Mumbai, and in Kenya, you will find a lot of similarities," said Muhammad Amir Rana, director of the Islamabad-based think tank Pak Institute for Peace Studies. "They (the Taliban) are adopting this as their prime strategy." The similarities between the Karachi and Mumbai incidents are startling and instructive. The attack on Mumbai, India's largest city, was carried out by a Pakistan-based anti-India group called Lashkar-e-Taiba, or Army of the Pure. It lasted three days, killed 166 people and transfixed the world. As with Karachi, it was meticulously planned and involved well-trained and heavily armed militants. In both cases, a 10-man team quickly split into pairs and carried provision-stuffed knapsacks in preparation for a long siege. In Mumbai, militants used mobile phones to coordinate with handlers in Pakistan and with each other in the heat of battle. Their Karachi counterparts were also seen using mobile phones during the assault. Lashkar-e-Taiba has said it has no connection with any attacks on Pakistani soil and there is no evidence that it works with the Taliban. India accuses elements in Pakistan's large army and its pervasive Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) spy agency of shielding or working with the group. But neither the military nor the ISI could forestall the havoc caused by 10 men who got out of a minivan near Karachi's cargo terminal on Sunday night. The attack began at 11.05 p.m., with five of the militants breaching the Fokker Gate with assault rifles and grenades. Minutes later, as the ASF fought back, a second five-strong squad attacked the nearby Cargo Gate. Both gates granted access to the cargo area in the airport's west. Azeem, the administration official, praised the ASF while admitting how hard it was to protect the sprawling airport. "You need almost two brigades to cover . . . every inch of it," he said. "Any entrance will have two, three, four people who are fully armed, but one burst of machinegun (fire) will kill all four of them and you can enter." When Faiz Mohammed ran across the tarmac, shouldering his AK-47, to reinforce his fellow ASF officers, four were already dead. "Our men were fighting relentlessly," he said. Mohammad was shot in the thigh and, like other wounded ASF, waited hours until it was safe for ambulances to evacuate him. "The ASF put up very stiff resistance and that apparently sowed panic among the attackers, who then split up and were eventually taken out by security forces," said a senior Pakistani security official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The militants' dispersal added to the mayhem and drew in more security forces. By 11.30 p.m., a contingent of police and paramilitary Rangers had arrived at the airport, followed 30 minutes later by an army unit. They formed what Azeem called "the second or the third layer" of airport security which stopped the militant advance on the main passenger terminal further east. "I WAS TERRIFIED" The gunfire was now punctuated by the boom of militants firing rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs). They had come prepared for a long fight. Their knapsacks contained water, medicine and food. Some were spotted using cellphones during the attack, said a security official involved in the investigation, although it was unclear who they were talking to - each other, or distant commanders. Phimraphat Wisetsoem could see and hear explosions from her seat on a Thai International Airways aircraft. It was trapped near the runway along with an Emirates jet and contained hundreds of passengers. Phimraphat suspected that hijackers in disguise had already boarded her plane. "I was terrified," she told reporters as she arrived back in Bangkok. "I sat still and didn’t dare move around." Passengers on both planes were later safely evacuated. Just after midnight, as all outbound flights were suspended and inbound flights diverted to other airports, there was a large explosion near Fokker Gate: the first militant had detonated his suicide vest. By now, dead and wounded were being ferried to the nearby Jinnah Hospital. Their numbers rose steadily through the night - by morning, the hospital would report 16 dead and dozens injured - as security forces intensified their counter-attack. As the fighting raged outside, seven employees from a cargo company took refuge in a warehouse - as it turned out, a fateful decision. They burned to death. Elsewhere, Hamid Khan, 22, a junior technician, hid with eight other men in the washroom of an aircraft maintenance company. A hand-grenade blew off part of the roof and bullets peppered a nearby container. "If anyone is inside, come out now!" shouted someone - friend or foe, Hamid couldn't tell. He and his colleagues kept silent and stayed put. "I was so afraid that I started reading my last prayers," he said, his voice still shaking with emotion days later. Two more militants would blow themselves up. By 4 a.m., all 10 were dead, their shattered bodies sprawled in pairs across the tarmac. It had taken 150 security personnel to counter them. The Rangers identified them as ethnic Uzbeks. Pakistani officials often accuse foreign militants of staging attacks alongside the Pakistani Taliban. "We admit we carried out ‎this attack with the help of our other brotherly mujahideen groups," the senior member of the Pakistani Taliban told Reuters. A SECOND ATTACK In daylight, Pakistan's busiest airport resembled a war zone. Smoke billowed from gutted buildings. Rescue workers retrieved the seven cargo company employees, their corpses charred beyond recognition, and raised the death toll to 34. Junior technician Hamid Khan and the other eight emerged unscathed from their washroom refuge. "I felt as if God had heard our prayers," he said. At least three passenger aircraft, all unoccupied, were damaged during the battle, a senior Pakistani security official told Reuters. A satellite photo on Google Earth showed a fourth aircraft in the cargo area completely destroyed, its broken wings lying amid the blackened remains of its fuselage. However, officials have not confirmed the destruction of any aircraft. Even as flights resumed and the clean-up began, the Taliban struck the airport again. On Tuesday evening, gunmen on motorbikes opened fire on an ASF academy, although there were no casualties. There would be "many more such attacks" in future, Pakistani Taliban spokesman Shahidullah Shahid told Reuters. Adil Najam, dean of Boston University's Pardee School of Global Studies, agreed. Karachi was "not just another terrorist attack," he said. "It is among the latest skirmishes in what is now an actual war between the Pakistan Army and the Taliban. The war is on - and expect escalation." (Writing by Andrew R.C. Marshall; Additional reporting by Maria Golovnina in Islamabad, Jibran Ahmed in Peshawar and Kaweewit Kaewjinda in Bangkok; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan) =============================================================== KARACHI: Around three to four gunmen have mounted a fresh attack on a security check post outside the airport a day after 37 people were killed after an all-night battle on Monday with militants who besieged Karachi airport’s old terminal, Express News reported. At present, gunmen are exchanging fire with Airport Security Force (ASF) personnel at the check post guarding the airport. A faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has already claimed responsibility for the attack. At least 37 people, including 10 terrorists, were reported dead in what is the first large-scale terrorist attack at the country’s largest airport in years. According to reports, 12 ASF personnel, one each of the police, Rangers and Shaheen Air International are among the deceased. The dead also include eight people who were trapped inside a private company’s cargo office and found dead 28 hours after rescue operations had started. Twenty-six others were also injured in the first assault. June 10, 2:17pm It was not a major incident, terrorists only opened aerial fire: Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 2:05pm According to ASF spokesperson Colonel Tahir Ali, the attackers that managed to flee were on motorcycles. He adds that they started firing at an ASF ladies hostel first, after which they proceeded to the ASF camp. The spokesperson also says that police and Rangers reached the site soon after they were informed. Ali also reveals that the attackers were carrying small weapons but the exact kind could not be ascertained as yet. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:57pm There have been contradictory reports coming in about the number of attackers. According to ASF spokesperson Colonel Tahir Ali, there were two attackers who managed to get away. Earlier reports had suggested that the total number of attackers is nine. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:55pm No casualties were reported in the attack, CAA spokesperson says. Security has been beefed up at Islamabad and Peshawar airport. and a shoot-on-sight order has been issued at Islamabad airport against suspicious individuals. Chaudhry Nisar contacts DG Rangers to inquire about the situation. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:50pm According to Express News, DG Rangers says the terrorists have managed to flee. The area has been surrounded by security forces and a search operation is underway. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:46pm DG Rangers says situation is under control and the operation is complete. ASF personnel take position on runway, say CAA sources. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:41pm Express News now reports that flight operations have resumed. Because of the security situation, routes to the airport have also been sealed. June 10, 1:32pm According to ISPR, security forces have surrounded the attackers. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:30pm The Rawalpindi airport has been put on red alert following the attack on the ASF camp. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:28pm Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) faction claim they have launched another attack on the Airport Security Force Academy in Karachi. “We again came to the Karachi ASF’s academy. God is Great. God is Great. God is Great.” spokeperson for a TTP faction, Omar Khorasani writes on his Twitter page. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:24pm CAA has asked people to remain calm, assuring that the airport is not under attack. Flight operations at #Jinnah International Airport are SUSPENDED. — CAA Pakistan (@AirportPakistan) June 10, 2014 #Jinnah Airport is safe, #ASF academy is under attack. Please remain calm and patient, will be updating you accordingly. — CAA Pakistan (@AirportPakistan) June 10, 2014 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:23pm Paramilitary vehicles and ambulances racing to the scene of the latest attack @BBCUrdu http://t.co/3FkjzLJH5f — Haroon Rashid (@TheHaroonRashid) June 10, 2014 I am in the plane to fly to dub for meeting with my co chairman.our plane has been stopped to fly b/o the attack on ASF camp /next Ap — Rehman Malik (@SenRehmanMalik) June 10, 2014 Army troops moved to reinforce security forces to counter terrorists attack on ASF — Haroon Rashid (@TheHaroonRashid) June 10, 2014 Lets appreciate courage of ASF boys as what seem from tv footage,they are confident2fight back terrorists.They are not cowards like RULERS — Rauf Klasra (@KlasraRauf) June 10, 2014 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:18pm Three police officers have been injured, Express News reports. A search operation has started as police officers and Rangers personnel enter Pehlwan Goth. A helicopters is also being used for surveillance. Flights to Karachi have been diverted to Nawabshah according to Express News. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:15pm Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is being constantly updated about the situation in Karachi and the fresh attack near the airport. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:10pm Express News now reports that the attackers have fled the scene. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has ordered that they be eliminated. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:08pm Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar was informed about the incident while he was briefing the National Assembly about the previous attack. The security forces are trying to find the place where the militants are hiding, they are reportedly hiding in the houses near the camp. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 1:01pm There were earlier reports that ASF personnel brought the situation under control, however, firing is still going on. The security forces are trying to find the place where the militants are hiding. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 12:56pm ASF personnel have brought the situation under control. The attackers reportedly tried to destroy planes and flee towards Gulistan-e-Johar. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 12:54pm An exchange of fire is going on between the assailants and the ASF personnel. Gunshots could be heard as Express News correspondent reported the encounter between the attackers and the security forces. There are at least five militants, according to ASF sources. Security has been enhanced at the airport as well as nearby areas and flights were diverted to other cities, according to sources in the CAA. A high contingent of Rangers personnel has also reached the site of the attack. IG Sindh Iqbal Mehmood says that 1000 police officers have been sent to the site. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 12:52pm An exchange of fire is going on between the assailants and the ASF personnel Security has been enhanced at the airport as well as nearby areas. The number of militants is five, according to ASF sources. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 12:44pm The militants attacked the camp from the Pehlwan Goth side. An exchange of fire is going on between the assailants and the ASF personnel. Express News screengrab of the side from where the militants mounted a fresh attack near Karachi airport. According to sources, the flight schedule has been suspended. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 12:41pm Rangers and the police have been summoned to the location. ASF sources say the attackers arrived at the scene in a car. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 12:36pm Express News is now reporting that militants have attacked the ASF camp, which is located half a kilometer away from the first attack site. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 10, 12:24pm Director General of Civil Aviation Authority tells Express News that eight bodies were found from the cargo office of a private company. He confirms that they were not found from the cold storage. He also states that seven of them were workers of the company while one of them was an ASF official. ========================================== UPDATE 8-Pakistani Taliban attack airport in Karachi, 27 dead Mon, Jun 09 06:43 AM EDT (Adds sectarian attack, paragraph 14) By Syed Raza Hassan ISLAMABAD, June 9 (Reuters) - Taliban militants disguised as security forces stormed Pakistan's busiest airport on Sunday and at least 27 people were killed in a night-long battle at one of the country's most high-profile targets. The assault on Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan's sprawling commercial hub of 18 million people, all but destroys prospects for peace talks between the Pakistani Taliban and the government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. It also deals a heavy blow to Sharif's efforts to attract foreign investors to revive economic growth and raises questions about security at the country's main installations. The attack began just before midnight when 10 gunmen wearing military uniforms and armed with automatic rifles and rocket-propelled grenades shot their way into the airport's old terminal, which is used mainly for charter and executive flights. Gun battles raged through the night until security forces regained control of the airport at dawn. Passengers were evacuated and all flights were diverted. Director general of the military's media wing, Asim Bajwa, said the airport had been cleared and would soon resume operations. The government said security was being stepped up at all airports. "We need to keep extremely vigilant," Shujaat Azeem, special assistant to Sharif on aviation, said in a statement. The Pakistani Taliban, an alliance of insurgent groups fighting to topple the government and set up a sharia state, said they carried out the attack in response to air strikes on their strongholds near the Afghan border and suggested their mission was to hijack a passenger plane. "It is a message to the Pakistan government that we are still alive to react over the killings of innocent people in bomb attacks on their villages," said Shahidullah Shahid, a Taliban spokesman.

"The main goal of this attack was to damage the government, including by hijacking planes and destroying state installations."

Pakistan's paramilitary force said that the attackers were ethnic Uzbeks. Pakistani officials often blame foreign militants holed up in lawless areas on the Afghan border for staging attacks alongside the Pakistani Taliban around the country. "Three militants blew themselves up and seven were killed by security forces," Rizwan Akhtar, the regional head of the paramilitary Rangers, said in televised remarks. "The militants appear to be Uzbek." The death toll included airport security guards and workers with Pakistan International Airlines. In a separate unrelated attack, at least 22 Shi'ite pilgrims were killed in a suicide attack near Pakistan's border with Iran, a local official said. A radical Sunni group claimed responsibility for the attack. GUN BATTLE Sharif came to power last year promising to find a negotiated solution to years of violence but after the latest attack on the airport the resumption of the peace process looked unlikely. Karachi is Pakistan's biggest city and commercial hub, home to a vibrant stock exchange, the central bank and the country's main port. But it is also a violent and chaotic place where Taliban militants and criminal gangs operate freely underground. At the airport, gun battles went on for five hours and television pictures showed fire raging as ambulances ferried casualties away. At least three loud explosions were heard as militants wearing suicide vests blew themselves up. By dawn on Monday, the army said the airport had been secured but heavy smoke rose above the building. "Ten militants aged between 20 and 25 have been killed by security forces," said a spokesman for the Rangers. "A large cache of arms and ammunition has been recovered from the militants. "A sweep operation is being carried out at the airport which is expected to be completed by midday (0700 GMT)." Officials said no aircraft had been damaged. Peace talks between the government and the Pakistani Taliban had failed in recent months, already dampening hopes of reaching a negotiated settlement with the insurgents, who continue attacks against government and security targets. Pakistan's Taliban are allied with but separate from the Afghan Taliban. (Writing by Maria Golovnina; Additional reporting by Gul Yousufzai; Editing by Robert Birsel)

https://m.facebook.com/syedzaidzamanhamid?refid=52&_ft_=qid.6022917075275413295%3Amf_story_key.-6257478416966407880&__tn__=C Why do I say that MQM is also heavily involved in the attack ?? We must keep this in mind that both MQM and TTP are controlled by RAW. Both orgs may appear to be enemies of each other in words etc, but in reality are collaborators, allies and assets of each other. MQM has NEVER really harmed TTP. TTP has NEVER ever attacked MQM rallies. When it comes to battle against Pakistan, MQM would provide logistics, support, weapons and protection to the TTP/RAW assets to wage urban war. Indian weapons have been found from MQM offices and from the airport as well. MQM senior members are known to be Indian citizens. MQM offered the British MI6 to act as their local spies for espionage if British govt can dismantle ISI !! These are documented facts. Given the scenario, I am sure that MQM is heavily involved in the attack, even if there is an involvement of TTP factions. TTP’s claim of the attack remains meaningless as they remain bloody liars all the way, claiming and disowning as they please. They had even claimed times square bombing in 2010 Watch the pics of dead terrorists. Compare them with Gorkhas. An ordinary Pakistani cannot tell the difference between Uzbeks or Gorkhas. My take is that these are Indian Gurkhas or Uzbeks from Dostum who were protected by MQM in Karachi and then launched. In Karachi, in the last 10 years, nearly 100,000 Pakistanis have been killed or wounded and TTP has not done that. MQM has !! Now both MQM and TTP would work together to wage the urban 5th GW. Denying this will not change the facts.

=========================================== Emirates passengers were guided to safety by military during airport siege Nadeem Hanif June 9, 2014 Updated: June 9, 2014 14:52:00 DUBAI // Flights between the UAE and Karachi were grounded on Sunday night after the airport in Pakistan was closed in the aftermath of an attack by gunmen. ■ Flydubai Karachi flights on hold, staff safe after terrorist attack Video Video: Karachi airport under attack Photos In pictures: Karachi airport siege Topic Emirates Airline, Airports, Etihad Airways At least 28 people are reported to have died when heavily armed militants attacked the Jinnah International Airport. An Emirates Airline spokesman said passengers on flight EK603 were helped to safety by the Pakistan Military during the siege. “Due to the closure of Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on Sunday 8th June, EK603, the Karachi to Dubai service, was cancelled,” the spokesman said. “Under the guidance of the Pakistan Military the passengers and crew disembarked the aircraft and were taken to a secure area of the terminal. “When the airport reopens all passengers will be rebooked on to alternate Emirates flights to continue their journey.” The Pakistani Army regained control following a five-hour battle, but flight operations remained suspended. Other flights affecting UAE carriers were diverted or grounded. “Due to the closure of Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Etihad Airways has delayed its flight EY221 from Abu Dhabi to Karachi on Sunday 8 June, and flight EY222 from Karachi to Abu Dhabi on Monday 9 June,” said a spokesman for Etihad Airways. Flight EY221 from Abu Dhabi to Karachi will now depart on Monday at 5.05pm. Flight EY222 from Karachi to Abu Dhabi scheduled for Monday, will depart at 8.30pm. “We will continue to monitor the security situation in Karachi. All affected Etihad Airways’ passengers are being kept fully informed about the situation,” the spokesman said. Passengers in transit at Abu Dhabi are being provided hotel accommodation and lounge access. “We apologise for the delay, however, the safety of passengers and airline staff is of paramount importance to Etihad Airways.” Both airlines are urging passengers to regularly check their flight status at www.emirates.com or www.etihad.com nhanif@thenational.ae Read more: http://www.thenational.ae/uae/emirates-passengers-were-guided-to-safety-by-military-during-airport-siege#ixzz348nurnGW Follow us: @TheNationalUAE on Twitter | thenational.ae on Facebook ================================== June 9, 3:54pm Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah has announced that each of the injured will receive Rs0.1 million. The families of the Rangers personal who were killed in the attack will be given Rs2 million and the families of the deceased ASF personnel will receive Rs1 million. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 3:46pm Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif directs Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan to reach Karachi. The premier tells the interior minister to meet the high ups of Rangers, police, ASF as well as CAA. Nawaz also asked Nisar to submit a report on how to stop terrorist attacks. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 3:27pm Quoting DG ASF Azam Tiwana Express News reports that the attackers were foreign nationals. He adds that security has been enhanced at airports. Funeral of the martyred ASF personnel has been held. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:35pm Flights to Lahore and Dubai are ready for departure. Flights from other cities can land in Karachi Airport. ==================================== #KarachiAirport LIVE: Firing, blasts heard at Karachi airport once again By Faraz Khan / Web Desk / Sohail Khattak / Saad Hassan Published: June 8, 2014 Share this article Print this page Email. Security forces have cordoned off the area. PHOTO: EXPRESS NEWS SCREENGRAB Smoke rises after militants launched an early morning assault at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on June 9, 2014. PHOTO: AFP PHOTO: AFP PHOTO: EXPRESS SCREENGRAB Fire and smoke can be seen rising from a part of the airport. PHOTO: Express Screengrab PHOTO: EXPRESS/MOHAMMAD NOMAN Smoke can be seen rising form the Airport in the background. PHOTO: EXPRESS/MOHAMMAD NOMAN A view of the airport. Smoke can be seen rising from the airport. PHOTO: EXPRESS SCREENGRAB Security forces have cordoned off the area. PHOTO: EXPRESS NEWS SCREENGRAB . KARACHI: A brazen terrorist assault on Karachi airport’s old terminal came to an end early Monday morning, five hours after militants took siege of the airport, the military announced. However, firing was heard from inside the airport hours after the announcement. At least 28 people, including 10 terrorists, were reported dead in what is the first large-scale terrorist attack at the country’s largest airport in years. According to reports, eight ASF personnel, two Rangers officials, one police officer and three PIA officials are among the deceased. Large plumes of smoke were seen rising from the runway area of the old airport (also known as the Hajj Terminal), as the airport shut down, passengers were evacuated and the flight schedule was suspended. Pakistan Army troops have been called in to take control of the situation. “A precautionary search operation will take place after daylight and the airport will be cleared for operations, handed back to the Civil Aviation Authority/ Airport Security by mid day,” said DG ISPR Asim Bajwa. ====================== LIVE: TTP claims responsibility for Karachi airport attack By Faraz Khan / Web Desk / Sohail Khattak / Saad Hassan / Tahir Khan Published: June 8, 2014 Share this article Print this page Email. Smoke rises after militants launched an early morning assault at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on June 9, 2014. PHOTO: AFP Smoke rises after militants launched an early morning assault at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on June 9, 2014. PHOTO: AFP PHOTO: AFP PHOTO: EXPRESS SCREENGRAB Fire and smoke can be seen rising from a part of the airport. PHOTO: Express Screengrab PHOTO: EXPRESS/MOHAMMAD NOMAN Smoke can be seen rising form the Airport in the background. PHOTO: EXPRESS/MOHAMMAD NOMAN A view of the airport. Smoke can be seen rising from the airport. PHOTO: EXPRESS SCREENGRAB Security forces have cordoned off the area. PHOTO: EXPRESS NEWS SCREENGRAB . KARACHI: Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for a brazen terrorist assault on Karachi airport’s old terminal. At least 28 people, including 12 terrorists, were reported dead in what is the first large-scale terrorist attack at the country’s largest airport in years. According to reports, eight ASF personnel, two Rangers officials, one police officer and three PIA officials are among the deceased. Twenty-four people have been injured in the attack so far as well. The military had announced that the attack had come to an end early Monday morning, five hours after militants took siege of the airport. However, firing and blasts were heard from inside the airport hours after the announcement. Large plumes of smoke were seen rising from the runway area of the old airport (also known as the Hajj Terminal), as the airport shut down, passengers were evacuated and the flight schedule was suspended. Pakistan Army troops have been called in to take control of the situation. “A precautionary search operation will take place after daylight and the airport will be cleared for operations, handed back to the Civil Aviation Authority/ Airport Security by mid day,” said DG ISPR Asim Bajwa. June 9, 12:30pm The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced that the airport will be made operational at 4pm. CAA advises passengers to contact the relevant airlines two hours prior to their flight time. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:17pm Rangers spokesperson says that the search operation is complete. The airport has been cleared and declared as safe. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:07pm Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif says the Karachi airport will be made operational soon. Necessary arrangements will be made to facilitate the passengers, he adds. No flight has arrived at the airport for the last 13 hours. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:03pm Express News reports that the terrorists entered the airport in two groups wearing ASF uniforms. ================================ 11:38am The attackers used factor VIII injections, which aid blood clotting and reduce bleeding, Express News reports. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11: 29am TTP spokesperson evades comments when asked about Sindh Rangers DG Major General Rizwan Akhtar claim that the attackers looked like Uzbek militants. “We do not make a distinction in Muslims whether they are Pakistanis, Uzbeks, Arabs or Chechans. They all are Mujahideen,” Shahidullah Shahid told The Express Tribune by phone. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11:21am Umar Media, the official media wing of the TTP, claims on their Facebook page that just six militants had attacked the airport. “The biggest reason for attacking Karachi airport is because it serves as the biggest air logistics centre supplying goods for the Crusaders’ war in Afghanistan and Pakistan,” a statement on their Facebook page claims. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11:18am Security forces continue to sweep the airport as a security measure while sources say that all attackers have been killed. The airport is expected to be cleared and handed back to the Civil Aviation Authority by 12pm today. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11:07am TTP spokesperson Shahidullah Shahid promises more attacks in the future. “It’s just the beginning, we have taken revenge for one (Hakimullah Mehsud), we have to take revenge for hundreds,” he says. “We have yet to take revenge for the deaths of hundreds of innocent tribal women and children in Pakistani air strikes,” the spokesperson states. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10:56am Rangers spokesperson says Karachi airport has been cleared of militants. ===== June 9, 10:49am Exchange of fire comes to a stop at the airport, Express News reports. Meanwhile, aerial firing from security forces still continues. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 10:44am TTP spokesperson Shahidullah Shahid says “this attack was the revenge of martyrdom our leader Shaheed Hakimullah Mehsud and brutal killings of the TTP’s prisoners in jails.” ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 10:35am Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, while speaking to Express News, says attacks like the one at Karachi airport are carried out to destroy the image of the country. “This country is facing an internal threat and we need to save this country,” he adds. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 10:18am Politicians on twitter express their viewpoints on the airport attack: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 10:14am TTP claims responsibility for the Karachi airport attack, reports AFP. “We carried out the attack on Karachi airport to avenge the death of Hakimullah Mehsud,” TTP spokesperson Shahidullah Shahid tells AFP, while dismissing the government’s recent offer of peace talks as a “tool of war”. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 10:10am Sources say that the militants who blew themselves up this morning were between 18 and 19 years of age. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 10:07am Search operation by security forces continues. The two militants that blew themselves up earlier this morning detonated the explosives when they were cornered by the security officials at the Isphani Hanger. Sources tell Express News that more suicide jackets, petrol bombs and other ammunition were recovered from the airport this morning. Policemen show seized weapons after militants attacked Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on June 9, 2014. PHOTO: AFP ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 10:03am People including journalists said on twitter: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 9:45am Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has asked for a report on the attack. Employees leave the Jinnah International Airport after militants attack in Karachi on June 9, 2014. PHOTO: AFP An airport official tells Express News that militants had entered the airport from the ICG gate and killed four ASF officials at the spot. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 9:36am Three blasts heard at Karachi airport at the old terminal. According to sources, two of the militants blew themselves up. Politician Ijazul Haq tweeted: Express News screengrab of the explosions. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 9:25am Blasts also heard at the airport, Express News reports. Express News screengrab. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 9:16am At least 28 people have been killed so far in the attack. Ten militants, eight ASF personnel, two Rangers officials, one police officer and three PIA officials are among the deceased. It is reported that 24 people have been injured in the attack so far. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 9:13am 6 to 7 tanks have proceeded to Isphani Hangar after the firing. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 8:49am Sources say three militants are present at Karachi airport. A high contingent of the Pak Army has reached the site of the firing. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 8:40am Express News reports that some militants are still present at the airport. The number of militants is not known as of yet. Express News screengrab of security officials at Karachi airport. Emergency has been declared once again. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 8:28am Firing heard at Karachi airport near Isphani Hangar, which is the aircraft overhaul facility of the airport, Express News reports. One person injured in the firing. The injured, identified as a technician, is taken to a local hospital for medical treatment. Express News screengrab of Karachi airport. “We have relaunched the operation and called in additional troops,” says Sibtain Rizvi, spokesperson for the Rangers paramilitary force. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 8:20am Islamabad and Lahore airports have been put on high alert. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 4:35am ISPR claims that all terrorist have been killed. DG ISPR claimed that remaining 4 terrorists have also been killed, bringing the total number of terrorists killed to 10. He further claimed that terrorists were confined to two areas. Weapons including rockets and RPGs were recovered from the terrorists. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 4:20am SSG commandos have reached Karachi to take part in the ongoing operation. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 3:55am Six terrorists have been killed so far during the army operation at the airport, said ISPR. The death toll has now risen to 18. Nine ASF men, one Rangers official and two PIA officials were also killed in the incident. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 3:30am Security forces have cleared the cargo terminal, Express News is reporting. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 3:25am According to Express News the bomb disposal squad has defused two suicide vests and 20 bombs recovered from slain terrorists thus far. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 3:10am Express News is reporting that two more loud blasts were heard. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:52am There’s another update on the death toll – which has gone up drastically. Now being reported: Some 7 ASF, 2 Rangers personnel as well as 1 policeman and one airline employee have lost their lives. Three terrorists are reported dead. Four hours have lapsed since the attack, and about half a dozen terrorists remain active, but contained. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:42am Express News is reporting that the death toll has increased to nine now. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:33am ISPR says that all passengers in the airport have been successfully evacuated. Says that the operation is in its “final stages” and Jinnah Terminal has been completely secured. The terrorists are still active, but contained to a specific area. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:20am Firing erupts once again following more loud explosions around the Airport. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:15am Express News is reporting that terrorists are holed up in one place. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:10am The flames inside the airport premises have increased in magnitude. People are also still stuck inside Jinnah Terminal. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 2:06am Express News is now reporting that three terrorists have been killed. Seven terrorists are still alive and at the airport and surrounded by security forces. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 1:28am More shots heard. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 1:21am Rangers’ officials are claiming that four terrorists have been surrounded. Two have already been killed. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 1:10am Express News is reporting that DG Rangers has arrived at the site to monitor the operation. The chief minister of Sindh is also reported to be in the vicinity. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:54am The spokesperson of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has confirmed that the Army has taken over the operation. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:52am The chief minister of Sindh is in touch with the Karachi Corps Commander and the Director-General of Sindh Rangers over the operation to clear the airport. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:50am Express News is reporting that two terrorists have been reported killed along with five security officials. Some of the injured and dead have been taken to Jinnah Hospital. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:45am Officials are telling The Express Tribune that the terrorists entered the airport from the Isphani Hangar, the aircraft overhaul facility of the airport. The hangar is located right in front of the PIA head office. It is improbable that there were too many employees there when attack occurred. The intensity of the gunfight and bomb explosions shook the entire neighbourhood around the old terminal. The terminal is considered as high security zone as VIPs including the prime minister and president frequently use it. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:35am CAA spokesperson Abid Qaimkhani has said he is not able to confirm the extent of the damage to the airport facilities or how many people have been injured or killed in the attack. “All I can say is that a few ASF and CAA officials have been injured.” ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:25am The Sindh government has declared red alert in the city and emergency has also been imposed in the hospitals of the city. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:20am Flights to Karachi have been diverted to other airports of the country. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 9, 12:10am The Army has been called in to back up security officials. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… June 8, 11:45pm According to details at least four ASF personnel were killed when terrorist hurled crackers and opened firing near Haj Terminal of Karachi Airport. Terrorist were trying to enter the runway area. Back-up contingents of security forces have been called in. Police and Rangers have cordoned off the area and flight schedule have also been put on hold. =========================================