Suicide bomb at Shiite Muslim mosque
A suicide bomber and suspected Islamic militants attacked a mosque in the southwestern city of Quetta, Pakistan, yesterday, killing an estimated 48 Shiite Muslim worshipers and wounding 69 others, according to reports.
This sets a disturbing precedent in Pakistan as it is the first act of terrorism to deploy the extreme method of suicide bombings.
Officials claim the attack was inspired by a willingness to fragment the country and excite friction between Sunnis and Shiites.
Reports differ as to how the terrorists entered the building. Some witnesses say all the attackers died after hurling grenades at worshippers in the 2,000 congregation in the Hazara Mosque.
One interpretation states the attackers shot indiscriminately at the crowd.
Others claim an attacker detonated a bomb attached to his waist.
The attack was the third in Quetta in the last month, according to officials.
Shiite Muslims have taken to Quetta’s streets and rioted, burning cars and tyres, following the blast.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
