The mosque was located in the northwestern city of Peshawar near the border with Afghanistan and was part of a police headquarters.
Afternoon Prayers Turn Tragic
The attack occurred during afternoon worship and was carried out in the provincial capital of Peshawar, where militancy has been on the rise. The mosque was destroyed, with one wall and part of the roof blown out from the force of the blast.
Emergency Rescue Mission Underway
A frantic rescue mission was underway at the mosque, with efforts being made to safely extract those trapped under the rubble. Bloodied survivors were seen limping from the wreckage, and bodies were being taken away in ambulances.
Police Headquarters Targeted
The police headquarters in Peshawar is one of the most tightly controlled areas in the city, housing intelligence, and counter-terrorism bureaus. The country has been on high alert following the blast, with checkpoints and extra security forces deployed.
PM's Statement
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued a statement, saying, "Terrorists want to create fear by targeting those who perform the duty of defending Pakistan. Those fighting against Pakistan will be wiped out from the face of the earth."
