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Struggling to find a clue to the Karachi suicide bombing, the police has launched a major crackdown against extremist groups suspected to have links with the Al Qaeda, rounding up more than 500 people even as the media on Thursday sharply attacked the military regime saying 'terrorism is stalking Pakistan with impunity'.
French Defence Minister Michele Alliot-Marie on Thursday visited the scene of Wednesday's bomb attack in which 12 French nationals working on a submarine project in Pakistan were killed.
Alliot-Marie, who visited the 10 French citizens injured in the bombing, said, "We have been shattered by this odious attack. The entire French community shares this emotion and this pain."
Later, a specially equipped German plane repatriated the wounded French nationals.
During her stay, Alliot-Marie is expected to review the security situation for French nationals working in Pakistan.
Meanwhile, reports reaching Islamabad said overnight raids were conducted on houses and religious seminaries and some of the offices of militant outfits across Pakistan, especially in southern Sindh and eastern Punjab provinces.
No one has claimed responsibility for the attack, but the government blamed groups having links with international terrorist organisations.
National newspapers strongly criticised the military regime for failing to rein in religious extremists.
"Far from ebbing, terrorism is stalking Pakistan with impunity as a new murderous and awesome wave seems to be sweeping the country," the Dawn said in an editorial.
EARLIER REPORTS Suicide bombing in Karachi; ten foreigners killed Suicide bomber kills 16 in Karachi Musharraf sees attempt to drive a wedge between Pakistan and France Pakistan police may seek outside help
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