The Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel in Gwadar has been attacked by armed militants and exchange of fire has started with security forces. It is believed three to four armed militants stormed the facility armed with heavy weapons, including rocket launchers.

Reports suggest that gunshots were heard after the heavily armed terrorists entered the five-star property.

According to Gwadar Station House Officer (SHO) Aslam Bangulzai at around 4:50pm police got reports that there were three to four armed men in the PC Hotel. Bangulzai said, “Firing is ongoing but there are no reports of any casualties yet.”

The police official further said that “there are no foreigners at the hotel right now”.

The SHO further said that “additional police force, ATF (Anti-terrorism force) and army are all present” at the hotel to handle the situation.

Frontier Corps personnel have cordoned off the hotel and no one is allowed to go near the area.

The Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel in Gwadar, is located on the Koh-e-Batil Hill, south of West Bay on Fish Harbour Road. The hotel is frequented by both business and leisure travellers.

The attack comes just weeks after 14 people, including 11 personnel of Navy, Air Force and Coast Guards, were killed by gunmen near Ormara in Gwadar, said local media.

First Published: May 11, 2019 19:09 IST