Gunmen have attacked one of Pakistan’s biggest airports in Karachi tonight, killing at least five people, police said.
The attack on Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan's sprawling commercial hub of 18 million, took place as prime minister Nawaz Sharif's government tries to engage Taliban militants in negotiations to end years of fighting. "The old terminal of Karachi airport was attacked by militants," said a senior police official.
Officials said all flights had been diverted and staff are being evacuated. Security personnel have sealed off the airport and army commandos have been called in, with gunfire continuing.
No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. “Over half a dozen armed men made towards the runway from the backside of the airport,” said a private television channel, quoting a witness.
Peace talks between the government and the Pakistani Taliban - separate to but allied with the Afghan Taliban - have failed in recent months, dampening hopes of reaching a negotiated settlement with the insurgency, which continues attacks against government and security targets.
Reuters