It is thought they tried to take shelter in the cold store as the attack unfolded but were unable to escape when fire erupted.
Ishrat ul Ebad Khan, governor of Sindh province, told a local TV channel: “We will work to investigate any negligence in rescue efforts by the authorities and those found guilty of negligence will be punished accordingly.”
Analysts believe the Taliban launched the high-profile attack to counter a growing belief that militants were on the back foot after years of drone strikes and a recent split in the movement.
Ten gunmen – some wearing suicide belts – entered the airport shortly before midnight on Sunday. Officials believe their targets were two planes that were boarding for international flights and fear the carnage could have been much worse.
Security has been intensified around the country’s nuclear bases after the Taliban threatened further attacks.
Pakistan’s warplanes were in the air less than 24 hours after the attack, launching air strikes against targets in the Tirah Valley.
A statement issued by the military’s press office claimed 15 terrorists had been killed and nine hideouts destroyed – claims that could not be independently verified.
The brazen attack on Karachi airport has increased pressure on the government and military action to launch its long-awaited offensive in the North Waziristan tribal district and clear the area of militant havens. Thousands of families are reported to have left the area in the past 24 hours.
Source: Top Stories - Google News - http://ift.tt/1o894BV
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