By Desmond Nleya
Islamabad, Pakistan – At least 30 people have been killed and more than 130 injured following a suspected suicide attack at a mosque in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, during Friday prayers, according to a police source.
The explosion tore through the mosque as worshippers gathered for congregational prayers, causing widespread panic and devastation.
A senior police source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the death toll is expected to rise as many of the injured are in critical condition.
Police official Zafar Iqbal confirmed that multiple casualties have been rushed to nearby hospitals.
“We have shifted several people to hospitals. I can’t confirm the exact number of fatalities at this moment, but there are deaths,” he said.
AFP journalists at the scene reported dozens of injured victims arriving at a major hospital, many with bloodstained clothing and visible wounds.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact nature of the explosion. A police spokesperson said investigations are ongoing, and security forces have cordoned off the area.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
(With inputs from AFP and Reuters)
