3 Pakistani Rangers killed in terror attack on Karachi headquarters

At least three Pakistan Rangers personnel were killed after terrorists attacked a Rangers headquarters in Karachi's heavily populated Gulistan-e-Jauhar area on Saturday, PTI reported on late Saturday, citing police officials.

Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho said initial investigations suggested the attackers arrived in a vehicle and rammed the compound's main gate before entering the premises.

Rangers personnel responded immediately, engaging the attackers in a gun battle, but three of them were killed in the assault, Odho said.


An explosion was heard when the attack began, though its cause has not yet been established, he added.

"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," Odho said.

Sindh Home Minister Zia ul Hasan Lanjhar said Special Security Unit commandos and the Anti-Terrorist Force had joined Rangers personnel in the ongoing clearance operation.

Earlier, local broadcasters ARY News and Geo News had reported an explosion and gunfire near the Rangers headquarters on a major road close to several universities and the Pakistan Meteorological Department.

Al Jazeera, citing sources, had reported that clashes were underway following the blast, while Dawn said police commandos, the Rapid Response Force and paramilitary personnel rushed to the scene and sealed off the area.

The area around the Rangers headquarters has since been cordoned off and surrounding roads closed, police said.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity or number of the attackers, and the operation was continuing at the time of filing this report.

(With inputs from PTI)