A mosque in the city of Peshawar in Pakistan was hit by a fatal explosion on Monday.
The attack claimed the lives of at least 88 individuals, with 157 others being left injured.
Eyewitnesses and local news sources reported that the explosion appeared to target security personnel as the mosque was situated in an area that housed a police headquarters.
Police officials had said the incident was a suicide attack.
Further evidence was released through CCTV footage, which showed a single attacker approaching the mosque on foot and brandishing a pistol.
The assailant opened fire on the police personnel stationed outside the main entrance before entering the mosque, where worshippers had gathered for prayers.
An explosion occurred after the attacker managed to enter the mosque and open fire on an individual who tried to stop him.
Police Commissioner Riaz Mehsood reported that a rescue operation was underway as several people were buried under the rubble.
Hospitals across the city have declared a state of emergency, and injured victims are receiving the best medical attention.
Meanwhile, police official Muhammad Khan reported that the roof of the mosque had collapsed and that the main hall, which had a capacity of 250 to 300 people, had fallen, while the rest of the building remained intact.
According to the report, ambulances were seen racing in and out of the compound every few minutes.
Over 20 funerals have already taken place for the fallen police officers, with their coffins draped in the Pakistan flag.
At the time of the blast, between 300 to 400 police personnel were present in the area, according to Muhammad Khan.
Pakistan’s President Arif Alvi condemned the attack, saying measures would be put in place to take out terrorism from the roots in the country.
“There is a need to take joint and far-reaching measures to eradicate terrorism from its roots. Schools of thought must work together to eliminate the ideological base of terrorists,” the president said.
“Islam does not allow brutal killings and suicide attacks of citizens. Such acts of terrorism are against the teachings of Islam. Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured in the attack.”
The explosion in the mosque in Peshawar city is a tragic reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region.
The loss of life and injuries sustained during the attack serves as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the security personnel who risk their lives every day to keep their communities safe.
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