Deadly bombing at Pakistan’s mosque claims four lives, injures dozens

Inspector General of Police in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Zulfiqar Hameed has confirmed that a deadly bombing at the Darul Uloom Haqqania mosque in Akora Khattak left at least four people dead and 12 others injured. 

The explosion occurred during Friday prayers, as worshippers gathered for the last prayer before Ramadan at the Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania seminary, located approximately 60 kilometres (35 miles) east of Peshawar, Caliber.Az reports via Pakistan’s media.

The sprawling campus, home to around 4,000 students who receive free food, clothing, and education, became the site of a horrific attack. 

Maulana Hamidul Haq Haqqani, the emir of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Sami (JUI-S) and vice administrator of the seminary, was among those killed in the explosion.  Hameed described the bombing as a targeted suicide attack. Initial reports suggest that the attack resulted in the deaths of three to four people, with 10 to 12 others injured. 

In response to the attack, the administration and medical staff at Peshawar’s Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), approximately 45 minutes away from the blast site, have been placed on high alert, with emergency measures in place to treat the wounded. Police teams have been deployed at the scene, with forensics and investigation teams actively working to gather evidence. The district police officer was also on-site, coordinating efforts. The blast occurred during the final Friday prayer before Ramadan, drawing a large crowd of worshippers. 

The mosque, located at the center of the madrassa compound, is a prominent building where senior students pursue their studies. Security at the mosque included a presence of police officers, as well as a mobile police van, while seminary staff carefully monitored visitors. 

The attack has shaken the local community, as it coincided with the students' last day of the academic year before going on their break. Authorities are investigating the incident, and the area has been cordoned off as law enforcement continues their efforts to ensure the safety of the community.

By Naila Huseynova