Pakistan: Increased security likely in Karachi and around Jinnah International Airport through late November /update 1

Authorities will likely maintain increased security measures across Karachi, including around Jinnah International Airport (KHI) through at least late November. Officials are imposing Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code until Nov. 24 amid the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) occurring at the Karachi Expo Centre until Nov. 22. Enhanced security measures will likely be maintained around KHI through late November following a tanker truck explosion perpetrated by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) near the airport late Oct. 6.

Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code empowers the government to temporarily prohibit unauthorized public gatherings and to deploy police, paramilitary, and military personnel to prevent rallies.

Enhanced security measures around KHI include the closure of Model Colony Road and the placement of barricades and vehicular inspection checkpoints at Stargate and Pehlwan Goth roads. Only airport-bound traffic is permitted to pass through the roads, with authorities requesting a copy of the traveler's ticket at checkpoints. Additional roads in the neighboring areas of the airport have reportedly been blocked off to ensure safety. Stricter entry requirements have also been implemented, including banning private taxi vehicles from entering the airport premises. A maximum of four individuals can accompany a passenger to the airport, with only one or two people allowed to enter the airport with the passenger.

Authorities may implement further enhanced security measures, including mass surveillance and sniffer dogs if they deem the current measures insufficient. Localized transport disruptions are likely near the airport premises.