Pakistan: At least 3 killed, many injured in blast at famous Anarkali market in Lahore

At least three people were killed and 20 injured in an explosion on Thursday in Lahore’s Anarkali area, Dawn news quoted officials as saying.

Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar has taken cognizance of the incident and directed the Inspector General of Police to submit a report in this regard. He also directed the officials to provide all possible medical facilities to the injured. The injured have been admitted to a nearby hospital.

Lahore Police Spokesperson Rana Arif confirmed the casualties and the number of injured, Dawn News reported.

According to the police, the blast took place near Paan Mandi, where Indian goods are sold. So far no group has claimed responsibility for the blast.

“We are ascertaining the nature of the blast,” Deputy Inspector General of Police Operation Dr. Mohammad Abid told reporters at the blast site near Lahore’s historic Walled City. More than 20 people have been injured in the blast and have been admitted to hospitals. ” Abid did not rule out the possibility of a timing device being installed in the motorcycle or in the market.

“The crater at the site of the explosion indicates the possibility of a timing device. However, at this stage we cannot confirm this,” he said. He said officials of the Anti-Terrorism Department and Bomb Disposal Squad have reached the spot and are probing the nature of the blast. According to Rescue 1122, the injured have been admitted to Mayo Hospital, where two died.

Mayo Hospital medical superintendent Dr Iftikhar said two people, including a boy, succumbed to their injuries. He said the condition of the four injured, who were brought to the hospital, is critical.

A large number of motorcycles and stalls of vendors were also damaged in the blast. Police have cordoned off the area. The entire Anarkali market is closed after the blast.

(with PTI input)

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