15 killed as twin blasts rock churches in Pakistan
Print Edition
Bombs outside two churches in the Pakistani city of Lahore killed 15 people and wounded at least 70 during Sunday services, and witnesses said quick action by a security guard prevented many more deaths.
A Pakistani Taliban splinter group claimed responsibility.
Islamist militants in Pakistan have attacked Christians and other religious minorities often over the last decade or more. Many Christians accuse the government of doing little to protect them, saying politicians are quick to offer condolences after an attack but slow to take any steps to improve security.
Yesterday’s blasts occurred minutes apart in a majority Christian suburb of the eastern city. Police said it seemed they targeted two churches, one Catholic and one Protestant, that are very close to each other.
After the explosions, enraged residents protested and lynched two suspects, police said.
“I was sitting at a shop near the church when a blast jolted the area. I rushed towards the spot and saw the security guard scuffle with a man who was trying to enter the church. After failing, he blew himself up,” said witness Amir Masih.
“I saw his body parts flying through the air.”
The guard died as well, he said. It was not clear if the first blast was also triggered by a suicide bomber, Masih said.
Fifteen people were killed and at least 70 wounded, said Zahid Pervaiz, provincial director of general health.
“The rescue operation is still under way and the death toll may increase,” rescue services spokesman Sajjad Hussain told media persons.
The Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility.
Following the blast, enraged residents lynched two men they suspected of involvement, a police official said. Journalist Riaz Ahmed said he had seen the two burnt bodies at an intersection.
Protesters also began smashing up shops and attacking vehicles.
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