ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that at least 12 people were martyred and 27 others injured in a suicide blast outside the Islamabad Judicial Complex on Tuesday.
Speaking to the media after visiting the blast site, Naqvi said the explosion occurred at 12:39 pm when a suicide attacker attempted to enter the complex but failed to reach his target. “The attacker planned to carry out the explosion inside the complex, but when he couldn’t get in, he detonated himself near a police vehicle,” he stated.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to ensure the best medical care for the injured, the minister added.
Interior Minister Naqvi said the first priority is to identify the suicide bomber. “We will bring all those involved in the attack to light,” he said, adding that the investigation is underway.
Referring to another incident in Wana, Naqvi said a similar vehicle-borne suicide attack took place at an entry point there yesterday. “Afghanistan’s involvement has been confirmed in the Wana attack. Communication links were traced back to Afghanistan,” he revealed.
The minister warned that if Afghan-based elements continue to act against Pakistan, “there will be no option left but to respond.”
Meanwhile, the initial report of the suicide bombing was released according to which the attacker arrived on foot and sat briefly near the main gate, where security checks were being carried out. He reportedly intended to enter the complex but detonated his explosive device on the road instead. Around 35 to 40 people were present at the scene when the blast occurred.
Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched a full-scale investigation.
