At least three people were killed, while around 23 others sustained injuries in a blast in Johar Town, Lahore. The explosion took place in a residential area near Allah Hu Boulevard, police said.
Lahore Deputy Commissioner Mudassir Riaz Malik said while it was not immediately clear what had caused the blast, it had left behind a crater. “We will only be able to determine the cause after carrying out an investigation,” he said, adding that the area was being cordoned off.
Inspector General (IG) Punjab Police has said that the Johar Town blast was a terrorist attack and as per the initial investigation the enforcement/police agencies may have been the target.
According to reports, rescue, police, and bomb disposal teams have reached the site of the incident, while witnesses said that the glass windows of nearby houses and buildings have been shattered. One of the buildings has been severely damaged and some vehicles parked at the site of the blast have also been affected.
An emergency has been declared in Jinnah Hospital to treat the injured, while Rescue 1122 and other relief organisations have been asked to expedite rescue activities.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar has taken notice of the blast, and directed the IG to investigate the incident and submit a report.
Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid also took notice and directed the Punjab chief secretary and IG to submit a report. He prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
