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Pakistani officials have vowed to eliminate terrorism and bring perpetrators to justice following a deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Islamabad. Pakistan’s Information Minister declared that terrorists cannot weaken the nation’s morale and that terrorism will be eradicated from its roots, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan. The statements came during a press conference where officials condemned the suicide bombing in Islamabad that occurred during Friday prayers.
The attack targeted an Imam Bargah mosque in the Tarlai area of Islamabad, resulting in 31 deaths and 169 injuries. Thousands gathered to participate in funeral ceremonies for the victims across various parts of the capital. The Information Minister emphasized that the state is fully determined to protect citizens’ lives and property while safeguarding places of worship.
Government Response to Islamabad Mosque Attack
During the press conference, the Information Minister stated that no one will be permitted to destabilize security and order or spread sectarianism in the country. He described the killing of humanity for a meager amount as a heinous crime deserving condemnation. The minister added that the entire nation is in mourning over the victims of the Islamabad incident.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the bombing and pledged to find those responsible and bring them to justice. Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar characterized the attack as a crime against humanity and a blatant violation of Islamic principles. These strong statements reflect the government’s commitment to combating terrorism in Pakistan and addressing security concerns.
Arrests Made in Connection With Bombing
According to officials, including a senior police officer in northwestern Pakistan, authorities have arrested some relatives of the suicide bomber. The officer, who did not disclose his name, indicated that the attacker hailed from Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, an area that has experienced ongoing violence. Some of the bomber’s relatives have been living in Nowshera, located on the route to the capital, for several years.
The investigation into the mosque attack is focusing on identifying the support network that enabled the suicide bombing. Law enforcement agencies are working to trace connections and determine whether the attacker received assistance from organized terrorist groups. However, authorities have not yet confirmed all details regarding the planning and execution of the assault.
Security Concerns in Pakistan’s Capital
The suicide bombing in Islamabad has raised serious questions about security measures protecting religious sites in Pakistan. The attack during Friday prayers, when the mosque was crowded with worshippers, resulted in one of the deadliest incidents in the capital in recent years. Meanwhile, the government has promised enhanced security protocols for places of worship across the country.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, from which the attacker originated, has long been a focal point of militant activity in Pakistan. In contrast, Islamabad has generally experienced fewer terrorist incidents compared to other regions, making this attack particularly alarming for residents and security officials. The breach of security in the capital has prompted calls for improved intelligence gathering and preventive measures.
Pakistani authorities continue their investigation into the bombing network and support systems that facilitated the attack. Officials have not announced a timeline for completing the investigation or specified when additional arrests might occur, though the government has reiterated its commitment to pursuing all individuals involved in planning and supporting the terrorist act.
