By Jite Eriabie
The head of Cosco in Pakistan has been shot dead in what police said appeared to be a targeted attack.
The Managing Director of Cosco Saeed Karachi Shipping Pvt Ltd, Chen Zhu, 45, was shot in the head when unknown gunman opened fire on his car, which he was in along with another Chinese national. At least 10 shots were fired the car.
“The incident appears to be targeted attack, (it) doesn’t look like a mugging,” the Deputy Inspector General of Police in Karachi’s south zone, Azad Khan, said.
According to the local police, two foreign nationals were attacked at lunch time in Karachi’s Chinatown.
“After having lunch, they moved towards Neelum Colony opposite Zamzama Park for purchasing vegetables/fruits. They were sitting in their vehicle,” said the statement released by the Sindh Police.
“They were sitting in the vehicle parked on the road. Suddenly, a well-built assailant opened fire from the front side of the vehicle, critically injuring Mr Chen Zhu,” added the statement.
The other foreign national, who was slightly injured in the attack, has been taken into protective custody. Chen did not have security detail with him at the time of the attack.
China has been ramping up investments in Pakistan as part of its massive Belt and Road Initiative. In December China warned its nationals in Pakistan of plans for imminent attack against Chinese targets in the country.
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