A powerful explosion at a religious rally near a mosque in southwest Pakistan killed at least 52 people and wounded more than 50 others, the Dawn newspaper reported citing health officials.
(Bloomberg) — A powerful explosion at a religious rally near a mosque in southwest Pakistan killed at least 52 people and wounded more than 50 others, the Dawn newspaper reported citing health officials.
The blast took place in Mastung district of Balochistan province where people were gathering to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, the paper reported. Balochistan region is a hot spot of militancy and borders Afghanistan and Iran.
This is the worst attack in Pakistan since January, when a suicide bombing killed 92 people in Peshawar.
While the report said Friday’s incident was believed to be a suicide blast, no group immediately claimed responsibility. Militant groups such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, and Islamic State have been claiming credits for previous deadly attacks, especially those targeting Pakistan’s armed forces.Â
Two weeks ago, a roadside blast injured a key politician in the same region while another attack last month targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers.
–With assistance from Akriti Sharma.
More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
©2023 Bloomberg L.P.