ISLAMABAD: A low-intensity blast rocked the outskirts of Islamabad causing injuries to 35 people.
According to police, the blast took place at a shrine in the Pandorian area during commemoration of the death anniversary of local Sufi saint Baba Nangay Shah. Investigators say an improvised explosive device (IED) was planted near a wall opposite the entrance to the shrine, near the langar stall.
According to shrine authorities, almost 3,000 devotees were attending the rituals and around 250 people were present at the langar stall at the time of the explosion.
Senior Superintendent of Police Muhammad Ali Nekokara told Dawn the blast was caused by a low intensity IED.
It was not yet clear whether the IED was remote controlled or a timed device.
Thirty-five people were injured by pellets in the IED but no deaths had been reported till late night. Eight victims are said to be in a critical condition. The injured were rushed to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences by rescue workers.
The shrine has three entry points, two of which were closed to maintain security during the event. Six police personnel had been deputed at the shrine.
Police officials present at the scene said that the explosion took place nearly 300 feet inside the compound.
Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2014