Wagah blast: Attacker was present in border area for last several days
At least 59 people were killed and 135 others injured in a suicide blast near Wagah crossing point.
LAHORE (Web Desk) – Initial report has revealed that suicide attacker was present in the border area for last several days and his accomplices are likely to be present in the adjoining areas, Dunya News reported on Monday.
At least 59 people were killed and 135 others injured in the suicide blast that took place near Wagah crossing point at Pak-India border in Pakistan s eastern city of Lahore on Sunday evening.
The incident took place when a suicide bomber exploded his explosive jacket amid a crowd of over 200 people who were coming back after attending the `lowering of the flags` ceremony and Rangers parade at the Wagah border crossing point between Pakistan and India.
The flag and parade ceremony that has become tourist favorite is held daily before the sunset and is attended by hundreds of people, including foreigners, from both Pakistani and Indian sides.
Hours after the explosion, a banned militant group name Jundallah claimed responsibility for the attack.
Following the claim by the Jundallah, two other militant groups, namely Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Taliban Hakimullah Mahsood Group, also claimed responsibility for the attack.
According to sources, the initial investigation report states that the attacker remained in a hotel for several hours where he had food and tea as well. It was confirmed by an injured witness.
Sources told that handlers of the attacker were present at scene and they were monitoring his movement.
It was also stated in the report that suicide vest and explosives were moved to the location with help of a vehicle. Suicide attacker s main target was to detonate his vest in the parade area but he could not succeed due to strict security arrangements.
The report further revealed that terror outfits behind the attack had Indian support and the attack was carried out under a well-thought-out plan.
Meanwhile, search operation in the border area is underway. Several shopkeepers have also been questioned.
