In brief
Pakistani authorities have arrested four suspects linked to a suicide bombing that killed more than 30 worshippers in a mosque in Islamabad. The interior minister revealed that among those arrested was an Afghan national alleged to be the mastermind of the attack carried out by the Islamic State. The blast is regarded as the deadliest in the capital for over a decade, prompting calls for increased security measures.
Four people have been arrested in connection with a suicide bombing that occurred on Friday in Islamabad, Pakistan, which resulted in the deaths of more than 30 individuals. Pakistan's Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, confirmed that one of those detained is an Afghan national who is alleged to be the mastermind of the attack. This incident took place during Friday prayers at a Shia mosque in the Tarlai area, where the congregation was significantly populated.The bombing was claimed by the Islamic State group, and over 160 people were injured in what is considered the deadliest attack in Islamabad in over a decade. Eyewitness accounts highlighted the chaos that ensued immediately after the explosion, with many reporting that bodies were scattered everywhere.In the leads following the attack, Naqvi accused India of providing funding to the perpetrators but these claims have been met with swift denials from Indian officials. Security has been tightened across the capital, with additional police forces being recruited.Public mourning has taken place in the city, with thousands attending funerals for the victims. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the attack, labeling it a crime against humanity. In light of this violence, which included other recent incidents claiming dozens of civilian lives, calls for enhancing security measures in Pakistan have intensified.
