JUST IN: Peshawar mosque blast, 56 martyred and 194 injured

PESHAWAR: During Friday prayers, a suicide bomb blast inside a mosque in Peshawar’s Kocha Risaldar area resulted in at least 30 worshipers’ martyrdom and 50 others’ injuries, Geo News reported, citing health and police officials.

Rescue workers and police have reached the blast site, and the injured have been shifted to local hospitals.

“10 injured are in critical condition,” according to a Lady Reading Hospital (LRH) spokesperson.

According to eyewitnesses, the powerful explosion took place during the prayers.

Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, Advisor to KP Chief Minister, announced the explosion took place during Friday prayers in a statement to the media.

“Reportedly the terrorists first tried to enter the mosque where they exchanged fire with the police,” said Barrister Saif.

He said that a terrorist managed to enter the mosque and carried out the attack.

Peshawar SSP Operations Haroon Al-Rasheed told Geo News that apparently it was a suicide attack. 

“There were two security personnel deputed at the entrance of the mosque. One of them died during the exchange of fire while the other is seriously injured.”

Confirming the details, CCPO Peshawar Mohammad Ejaz said that two terrorists opened fire at the policemen and tried to enter the mosque.

“The blast took place after  an attack on policemen.”