Islamabad: At least 24 people were killed and several others injured in a suicide bombing at an imambargah in the Tarlai area of Islamabad on Friday.
According to police, the attacker detonated explosives at the entry gate of the imambargah during Friday prayers after being stopped by security personnel. The explosion caused panic in the area, while law enforcement agencies immediately cordoned off the site to collect evidence.
The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals, while an emergency was declared at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and other medical facilities in the capital.
Condemnations:
President Asif Ali Zardari:
“Targeting innocent civilians is a crime against humanity,” President Zardari said, adding that the nation stands united with the affected families in this difficult time. He directed authorities to ensure all possible medical assistance to the victims.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives. President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed profound grief, extending condolences to the bereaved families and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
State Minister for Interior Tallal Chaudhry visited PIMS to inquire about the condition of the injured.
Meanwhile, Sindh Interior Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar ordered heightened security across the province, directing authorities to further tighten security at Imambargahs, mosques, and other religious sites. He emphasized increased police patrolling in sensitive areas, effective snap-checking, organized roadblocks, and strict monitoring at entry and exit points.
The minister also instructed the deployment of plainclothes personnel, ensured the use of walk-through gates and metal detectors, and ordered that CCTV cameras remain fully functional.
Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or via the police helpline 15, as authorities stress that public cooperation is vital amid heightened security measures.
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This is a developing story….
