Suicide Blast At Shiite Seminary Kills 14, Injures 32 In NW Pakistan

Islamabad, June 22, IRNA -- At least fourteen people were killed while thirty-two others injured in a suicide attack inside a Shiite seminary in Northwestern city of Peshawar on Friday, police said. Reportedly Hussaini Madrassa in Gulshan colony of Peshawarˈs Chamkini area was the target of the blast. The interior of the seminary was destroyed in the attack. There were around 40 people inside the Madrassa at the time of the blast. All those killed and injured belonged to Shiite community. Majlis Wehdat Muslemeen (MWM) has announced three days of mourning over the tragic incident. Deputy Superintendent Police Chamkani, Shaukat Khan confirmed that the explosion was caused by a suicide bomber. According to reports, rescue workers and heavy contingent of police rushed to the area and cordoned off the scene. The reports, said that gunshots were also heard before the explosion, which took place amid tight security. An eyewitness Asif Wadood told media that a suicide bomber entered the seminary and blew himself up while sermon was being delivered. Other eyewitness said that the attacker shot at the guards posted at the entrance of the complex before entering the premises where the explosives were detonated. The dead bodies and injured were shifted to Lady Reading Hospital while emergency was declared at all the cityˈs hospitals. Several of the wounded were reported to be in critical condition. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif condemned the incident and the loss of innocent lives while ordering immediate treatment of the victims. President Asif Ali Zardari and and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf Hussain also condemned the attack. Moreover Khyber Pakhtunkhwaˈs Provincial Minister for Information Shaukat Yousufzai Ali in his statement condemned the attack./end