A deadly suicide bombing during Friday prayers at an imambargah in Islamabad’s Tarlai area has left at least 31 people dead and 169 injured, triggering emergency measures in hospitals and a nationwide security alert. Witnesses say the attacker fired at guards before entering the courtyard and detonating himself among worshippers, causing panic and mass casualties. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and ordered a full investigation as authorities search for the network behind the assault and tighten security across the country.
By MediaBites | Lahore
At least 31 worshippers were killed and 169 injured after a suicide bomber struck an imambargah in Islamabad’s Tarlai area during Friday prayers, authorities confirmed, in one of the deadliest attacks in the capital in recent years.
According to the district administration, dozens of victims were brought dead to multiple hospitals, while an emergency has been imposed across Islamabad’s medical facilities.
Police said the attacker detonated himself inside the courtyard after opening fire at the entrance security guard and forcing his way into the congregation.
Eyewitness accounts
Survivors described scenes of chaos moments after worshippers went into prostration during the first prayer unit.
“We had just gone into sajdah when a massive explosion shook the hall. Smoke spread everywhere and people were screaming,” said injured worshipper Zahid Ali.
Another eyewitness, Jawad Khan, said the attacker shot at the gate guard before entering and detonating himself. Witnesses also reported additional gunfire during the incident.
Rescue teams transported victims to PIMS, Poly Clinic and other hospitals, while volunteers used private vehicles to shift the critically injured.
Government response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and ordered a full investigation, vowing action against those responsible.
Security officials have also reported separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where 24 militants were killed in clashes with security forces. However, no official link to the Islamabad attack has yet been confirmed.
Wider impact
Following the explosion, panic selling hit financial markets, with the Pakistan Stock Exchange’s benchmark index dropping sharply during trading.
Authorities have tightened security across the capital, while mosques and imambargahs nationwide have been placed on high alert.
Investigations are underway to identify the attackers and possible facilitators.
