In brief
After a tragic suicide bombing at a mosque in Islamabad, which killed more than 30 people, four suspects have been arrested, including the alleged mastermind. The incident, claimed by the Islamic State, has raised serious security concerns in Pakistan, prompting a pledge from authorities to bolster security measures across the capital. Thousands mourn the victims as the nation grapples with grief and outrage.
Four people have been arrested on suspicion of facilitating a suicide bombing that killed more than 30 individuals during Friday prayers at a mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan's interior minister has confirmed.
Mohsin Naqvi stated that one of those detained is an Afghan national who is alleged to be the mastermind behind the horrific attack. During the raids to apprehend the suspects, one counter-terrorism officer was killed and three others were wounded.
The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for this attack, which occurred in the Shia mosque of Tarlai when it was filled with worshipers. This tragic event resulted in over 160 injuries, marking it as one of the deadliest incidents Islamabad has seen in over a decade.
Following the attack, huge crowds gathered in the city as thousands mourned the loss of 32 victims at funeral services held under tightened security, with military and police present to ensure safety.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with one survivor recalling how he lost his senses moments after the explosion and another witnessing bodies strewn across the ground.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, expressed his profound grief over the attack, labeling it as a crime against humanity. Meanwhile, accusations of external funding for the attackers have sparked tensions, with Pakistani officials suggesting possible links to India and Afghanistan, claims that have been categorically denied by both nations.
To prevent future incidents, Naqvi announced plans to enhance security protocols in Islamabad, including hiring additional police officers and improving the city’s security infrastructure.
This tragic attack is part of a disturbing trend, with the last week alone seeing numerous violent incidents, including 58 civilians killed in coordinated assaults in Balochistan province, attributed to the Balochistan Liberation Army.
