LAHORE: A suicide bomber killed at least 55 people Sunday at the Pakistan-India border crossing at Wagah.
The explosion, which wounded more than 120, came at Wagah border gate after the "flag-lowering" ceremony culminated on Sunday evening which attracts thousands of spectators every day and is popular with foreign tourists.
"It appears to have been a suicide attack. At least 55 people have been killed and more than 120 wounded. Women and children were also killed," Mushtaq Sukhera, the Punjab provincial police chief, told AFP.
Sharif expressed "grief and sorrow" over the attack in a statement issued by his office and ordered those responsible to be brought to justice.
His Indian counterpart Narendra Modi condemned the "shocking" and "dastardly" attack. "My condolences to the families of the deceased. Prayers with the injured," he said.
Punjab Rangers DG Maj-Gen Tahir Javed said that three of Rangers had been killed in the blast, which came around 500 metres from the post itself.
There were several conflicting claims of responsibility for the attack.
November 2, 11:10pm
Map of the border post and the blast.
Ambulances and security officials at the Gurkhi Trust Teaching Hospital near Wagah. PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS
A car of the forensic department heading towards the crime scene near Wagah. PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS
Ambulances and security officials at the Gurkhi Trust Teaching Hospital near Wagah. PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS
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November 2, 10:50pm
In an emailed statement, Jamatul Ahrar spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan has claimed that his group carried out the Sunday evening attack at the Wagah border. He warned of more attacks in the future.
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November 2, 10:30pm
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the blast at Wagah border post and has offered his condolences to the victims.
Terror attack in Pakistan near Wagah Border is shocking. I strongly condemn such a dastardly act of terrorism.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 2, 2014
My condolences to the families of the deceased. Prayers with the injured.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 2, 2014
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November 2, 10:25pm
IG Punjab says between 12 to 15 kilogrammes of explosives were used in Sunday's suicide attack.
The attackers had used nails and ball bearings along with explosives.
There were conflicting claims about the group who took responsibility for the attack. Jamatul Ahrar militant group and the TTP Mehsud have claimed responsibility for the attack, Express News reported.
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November 2, 10:07pm
Police say the toll from the Wagah blast has risen to 55 people. More than 120 people were wounded in the suicide bombing.
The casualty list includes three Rangers, 11 women and three children.
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November 2, 9:45pm
Press Trust of India reports that India will not be holding the "beating retreat" ceremony at the Wagah-Attari border on Pakistan's request for three days in light of Sunday's blast.
No beating retreat ceremony at Wagah border for 3 days from tomoorrow at the request of Pakistan: BSF chief D K Pathak.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 2, 2014
Punjab Rangers too have announced that the "beating retreat" ceremony at the Wagah border will not be held for three days.
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November 2, 9:43pm
Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has expressed the government's resolve to fight terrorism in the country. In a statement, he said the terrorists cannot dent the resolve of the nation to fight terrorism, Radio Pakistan reports.
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ovember 2, 9:40pm
Here are some shots from the blast site
Ball bearings were used in the attack
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November 2, 9:26pm
The Express Tribune correspondent Rameez Ahmad reports that the Punjab Rangers have taken over security for Gurkhi hospital and have restricted access to the building. They have stopped family members of the victims from entering the hospital, resulting in a commotion at the site.
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November 2, 9:16pm
The death toll has now risen to 54, including 11 women and three children, Express News reports.
The three Rangers officials killed in the blast have been identified as Inspector Rizwan, Naik Shabbir and Lance Naik Shabbir Saleem.
Further, Express News correspondent Noman Sheikh says ther is a possibility heavy explosives may have been used in the attack.
“Initial reports had suggested that the attack was a suicide; however, investigators are trying to determine if a remote controlled or a timed device was used.”
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November 2, 9:02pm
Indian Border Security Force (BSF) was put on high alert along the India Pakistan border after the blast, NDTV reported.
BSF officials at Attari border in Punjab said that the blast was heard at a distance of nearly two kilometres.
“We have put our troopers on high alert along the entire border following the Wagah incident. We are trying to get details," a BSF official said.
RPS Jaswal, deputy inspector general of India's Border Security Force which guards Attari, said Indian side of the border was secure, but security had been stepped up.
"A red alert has been issued keeping in view the blast across the border in ... Pakistan," Jaswal told AFP by phone from his base near the city of Amritsar.
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November 2, 9:00pm
Relatives gather around the bodies of blast victims. PHOTO: AFP
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November 2, 8:32pm
The al Qaeda affiliated group Jundullah has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to Express News.
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November 2, 8:28pm
DCO Lahore while speaking to Express News said over 70 injured in the blast have been shifted to three different hospitals of the city.
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November 2, 8:22pm
The death toll now stands at 52 and over 75 people have been injured, our correspondent Rameez Ahmed reported.
Eight people belonging to one family have also been killed in the incident.
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November 2, 8:10pm
Express News screengrab of the blast site.
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November 2, 8:20pm
Punjab DG Rangers Maj-General Tahir Javed Khan confirmed that three Rangers personnel have died.
“Five Ranger officials have been critically injured as well,” he added, while addressing the media in Lahore.
Confirming that it was a suicide blast, DG Rangers said, “The suicide bomber was standing just before the first scanner and he did not breach security.”
“The place where the suicide attacker exploded is 500-600 yards way from the parade ground,” he said. “Walk through gates and scanners were installed near the parade ground.”
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November 2, 7:55pm
Express News screengrab of Rangers standing near the bodies of the victims of the blast at Ghurki hospital.
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November 2, 7:50pm
President Mamnoon Hussain, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif have expressed grief over the loss of precious lives in the blast, Radio Pakistan reported.
In separate statements, they expressed sympathy with bereaved families.
The premier has sought a report of the incident and directed the concerned authorities to provide the best medical treatment to the injured people.
Further, he has directed the interior ministry and law enforcement agencies to provide all necessary support to the Punjab government in investigating the Wagah incident.
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has taken notice of the incident and sought report from the administration and police authorities.
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November 2, 7:46pm
Express News screengrab of relatives gathered outside the hospital.
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November 2, 7:45pm
Punjab police chief Mushtaq Ahmed Sukhera has confirmed that it was a suicide attack.
Speaking to Express News, IG Punjab said, “Our teams have confirmed that it was a suicide blast.”
The IG said that the suicide bomber was stopped at the gate of the parade ground at the border and detonated the bomb right when people gathered near the gate.
"Up to five kilogrammes of explosive material was used in the blast," Sukhera said.
"The bomb exploded outside a restaurant near a Pakistani paramilitary soldiers' checkpoint at Wagah border," he added.
“There were security threats and the Rangers were prepared but when large numbers of people started to leave the ground, the bomber blew himself causing loss of lives.”
The police chief denied that this incident was because of a security lapse as the border is a Rangers area.
The explosion occurred in the parking area of the Wagah border between India and Pakistan, as the flag hoisting ceremony ended.
Initially it was reported that it was a cylinder blast.
“We think it is sabotage,” DIG Operations Haider Ashraf said, while talking to media representatives.
He urged families to give way to injured people and ambulances that are still being brought in.
The Punjab health department has imposed an emergency in all teaching hospitals in Lahore following the blast.
“The injured were initially taken to Ghurki Hospital, which is nearest to the site of the blast,” adding “Patients in critical condition are being shifted to Services Hospital for the treatment,” the health department spokesperson said.
Police and rescue officials have reached the scene and further investigations are underway.
COMMENTS (87)
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@Candid1: If India has done it then accept it thst they have done a good job.
As an indian, I can say it categorically tha we are incapable of pulling off a job like this.
I along with fellow Indians join in the sorrow of those who lost their close ones.
@rana: All should note that "newsrealities" is a blog, not a news organization! As usual falsely points to "many" indian consulates opened along pak/afghan border, but somehow can't tell us where they are located!!!
@Paki: Its hundred persent SECURITY FAILUR of pakistan side.Responsible persons are only misguide the Nation.How the bomber reached freely on the spot.How the terriorests are moving in whole the country freely? Only for some little mony,everything is available easily,WHERE IS THE GOVERNMENT?
@rana: Who is the author of this Blog ? a typical pakistani..
@Paki: You people don't leave children and women. Shame on you 85t5.
i have read this but i have some thing more to share with you people that who is behind this blast please read this article http://www.newsrealities.com/2014/11/indian-involvement-in-wagha-border-blast.html
If you keep snakes in your backyard to attack your neighbours, one day they will surely bite you.
This suicide blast proves that Pakistan's internal security has been totally collapsed and flopped because suicide crossed three check posts whereas on second check post checking is so strict and Pakistan's security has been only for leadership and ministers......
I hope the authorities use this opportunity to put an end to that childish show of stomping feet at the border.
It is a very sad moment for people of Pakistan.We all resolve to defeat these rogues. Condolences to the families of the dead. Hope the injured recover soon.
May the SOULS of those who Lost their Life due to this Dastardly Attack REST IN PEACE. May God grant the Families of the Deceased strength to bear their grevious loss.
Its a must elimination of ttp forever.
@Paki: Wow what Ignorant Remarks, Pakistani's always have to cede blame to someone else.
Sad for the loss of life It is high time this idiotic show of patriotism is stopped by both countries, both cheerleaders and the performers look silly to say it mildly
@Candid1: this is a typical reaction of Muslims. Never accept your fault and always blame others. God's sake For once accept that the fault lies with you and try to find a solution. Stop this unnecessary violence. Forget jihad and learn to live with peace with all and sundry.
Iignorants and fools are those who reckon that Indian and Pakistan intelligence units are not activively involved in the turmoil and carnage which is being experienced by the civind lians from Waziristan to Bajaur to Peshawar rean gion and all the way to Karachi!!! Is Pakistan on the threshold of a military take over or the ground invasion of the Indian military. Why must the so called Jandullah if they were the perpatrators choose Indian Pakistan border town at Wagah? The American NSA could provide the clue who have complete surveillance of the region.
Rex Minor
@Candid1: So much foolish statement. all these elements are made in Pakistan. everybody except u know this fact. These are brainless creatures.
My hear felt sympathies with the next of kin of the victims of the bomb blast at Wahga border we can not any good from these animals who are bent on killing the innocent unarmed people if they are so brave they should fight with the Army. The Pakistan Army must deal with these animals with a heavy hand. RIP
Stop that nonsense ceremony permanently.
It's clear who doesn't want us to trade with india
My condolences.
It is too soon to say anything more. Let us not jump to conclusions yet.
If the same terrorists had killed innocents 1/2 kilometer away inside India, many Pakistanis would be congratulating them !!
The cowards who are behind this shameless attack know that they are losing and there is nothing that there foreign sponsors can do to help them. Pakistani security forces will defeat these cowards who attack civilians and children once and for all. The people of Punjab are not easily scared by such acts.They will become even more resolute to stamp out terrorism.
Dreadful sorry Pakistan.
@Rama: Lies have limits. Your theory can be bought by gullible few. But one day even those gullible will start questioning this perpetual lies people like you spread. Some day they will ask your for any evidence you will need share to really support your claims.
Outdated Zardari-league & Nawaz league could not manage to control a large country like Ir Pakistan, they failed to provide security to the citizens of Ir Pakistan, the time has come the Govt should be handed over to united powerful honest faithful compatriots PTI & PAT, Imran khan & Allama Dr Qadri are the very clean rare political personalities well-known in Ir Pakistan and respected world over, Go System Go, Go Nawaz Go
Prayers to those who lost their lives and prayers for strength for people who lost their loved ones. Violent terrorism is not a solution to anything. If we the liberal and moderates continue our silence towards those intolerant types, we will soon perish. Terrorism is not between Hindu and Muslims, since a terrorist does not care whether he is killing a Hindu or a Muslim. His only aim is to terrorize and to suppress those who do not fall in line to their version of religion or cause. Some Pakistanis can continue to let their blind hatred towards India even if there is a Pakistani militant admitting the attack. Or they can strengthen their resolve to eliminate all form of terrorism good or bad from their country. Encouraging violent jihad for whatever cause (including Kashmir) is not something that you can wish to control. Such things always goes out of control and spreads like a disease. Hatred spreads way faster than love, because to hate is easy, to love is quite difficult. Peace to those innocent souls.
Oh well, given the neighbor's recent war mongering monologue, I'm pretty damned sure who directed the tragedy.
A barbaric incidence of violence against fellow human beings. May deceased rest in peace and prayers for injured. Hope those in power in the region will take serious steps to stamp out extremism and terrorism.
I wonder if Imran Khan will still continue to support the TTP. Imran Khan should be ashamed for harbouring a soft corner for these terrorists and openly criticize them.He is quick to threaten the government, I don't see him threatening the TTP. shame on PTI
GO NAWAZ GO !!
....and still we do nothing about the extremist madrassas that breed and nurture such criminals.
terrorist have no religion they just kill humans neither hindus or muslims. all religions preaches peace and brotherhood and i think terrorists have their own religion i.e. terrorism not the real one.
Why stop the beating retreat ceremony only for 3 days? Please completely stop the stupid drama at the border once for all permanently. Great opportunity to turn this tragedy into something useful.
@arsalan: Thank you Arsalan for the advise. But why not we all give advise to the concerned, to bring the real culprits on the front. Because, this terrorism is somehow being backed by somebody. The weapons and other stuff. So, who is backing this? Who has the benefit if Pakistan bleeds !!!! ............. Ya Allah, open our eyes. And show us the right path, and give us courage to follow the right path. The path of those, who You bestowed. Aameen
Those who are in lahore...plz donate your blood in gurkhi hospital and in other hospitals where the injured have been shifted. Plz.
Our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased in Pakistan. The animals who did this dastardly act must be identified and brought to justice. Nothing justifies killing innocents. Period.
really wonder what their agenda is,killing innocent people of their origin.it's high time that these terrorists are eliminated from earth.my condolences to all the victims...n what happened to the islamic world??we know from history that mughal empire touched the zenith of development n science during the reign of Akbar the great.we've heard about the likes of shah jahan n many successful rulers.Where have their ideology n attitude gone?I am not referring to all muslims,there are thousands who love peace.but majority of it,like iraq,syria n some others,and these terrorist activities have really tarnished the image of islam.My opinion for u brothers is that,stand up n eliminate these terrorists as soon as possible.
@Candid1: Too bad you neglected to look up Jundullah and see that it is closely associated with the TTP, and has taken credit for numerous terrorist acts in Pakistan over the years! However, you somehow neglected to provide all of us any credible references to support your contention that Jundullah is supported by India!!!! @Rama And where can we all read about those "regular meetings" you contend the leader of Jundullah had with the Americans in recent times???
Condolences my fellow muslim brothers. The whole ummah is with you in your hour of need!
Extremely sorry for the loss of so many innocent common citizens who have gathered to enjoy the retreat ceremony but became the target of these scoudral. My heart felt sympathy for the next of kin of the deceased. I am also socked to read the comments alledging India if they areIndian agents kill them all at any cost, e have not enough resources to spent on these activities we have lot of problems to be solved than doing such deeds. I also request the Pakistanis to investigate this incidenace thoroughly and if found Indian hand ell the whole worls/
All the fault and doing of Indian (RAW) and Israeli (Mossad) agents... assisted by their "mother-lode" coming from the Amreeka (CIA) ... what more need I say....? May they all the 3 be the Damned!!
jundallah means
arrival of 'IS' in Pakistan !!!!!!!!!!!!!Very sad and condemnable incidence indeed,FROM INDIA
Didn't I tell u ?? didn't I tell u so ?? There is a third party involved always which does not want peace between the two sides . Now both sides should stop fighting and join hands against this third party .
@Paki: please let the police find out , that is they really want to. then there will be internal lapses. We can then blame indian agents
Indian sponsored terrorists...!!!! their ambassador should be expelled..Pakistani ambassador called back. all ties with India cut off.. we do not need them.. they are nothing but a source of evil...
@Paki - "it must be from Indian agents, trying to spread anarchy. "
Well said... Now please have you're army get cracking on these 'Indian agents' as you term them... Please don't have you're leaders advocate peace talks with them, just because they feel they're 'our brothers'....
ET - Pls. publish.
O' ho. What a bad and great blast. Its not tens of people died but more than 50 families injured. Ya Allah, place the souls of shohada in Jannah. Its all due to ignoring Allah and His Rasool's preachings. Start offering Salat before our Salaat is to be offered.
These terrorists are worse than animals.All they know is killing-overwhelmingly innocent people.
My message to PAKISTAN Army kill all these so called muslim in Waziristan who are covering their face real face behind veil of islam and doing all those things which are against shariah
Witnessing sympathy and pain with the families of shaheeds of wagha i with all my family are sharing pain with all of you, it was practically the same place where we lost our loved one the very important person of our family he was serving Ir Pakistan as a ranger officer at wagha some time ago, standing salutes to all of you with respect, Long Live Islamic Republic Of Pakistan, Long Live All Peoples Of Ir Pakistan
Khoon ka badla khoon. Pak Army, give these terrorists a lesson they won't forget.
Jandullah is same organisation whose leader used to have regular meetings with Americans in Afghanistan and India. RAW could be behind this attack.
My Heartfelt condolence to the near and dear of the deceased in this mindless violence. I share the pain of the so many injured in the hospitals - Writer from India.
This is heart rending.I commiserate with the innocents who lost their loved ones.
This admission by Jundallah confirms that they are Indian agents, because they targetted patriotic Pakistanis who had gone to Wagah to reaffirm Pakistani independence in face of Indian agression. Indian ambassador should be expelled from Pakistan, and Pakistan should initiate efforts to isolate India until it stops its terrorism in Pakistan.
Suicide bombers attack wherever they find their prey. Large gatherings are their best shot except those arranged by their friends. Do not gather anywhere except arranged by Imran Khan.
@Paki: Read the news carefully . It was Jundullah.
*V v harmful & sorrowful event. May God bless them Heaven!*
A mammoth city devoid of proper entertainments and Parks attracts people to religious settings and parades. I believe they call them soft targets.
This is very very sad and in my opinion total failure of security
lets not blame our weaknesses on our neighbors.
@ Paki: All the suicide bombers in Pakistan from Khyber to Karachi are not Indian agents. Blaming others is not going to help you eradicate the enemies within, namely the terrorists. Support the Army which is fighting them in Waziristan.
It could be Israeli agents doing the bombing in such a way that they never will be blamed. We need to think out of the box.
@Paki Much more likely the terrorist was planning to target India but it misfired.
Revenge for Kashmir,!!
Pakistan should unilaterally stop holding (if India wouldn't) the lunacy of flag hoisting ceremonies with each country trying to show its masculinity. It is hard on the soldiers knees; no economic benefit is reaped by either country.
@Paki is already spinning conspiracy theories. There is anarchy in Pakistan - no one has to do anything!
Message from India through their TTP agents.
May their soul rest in peace... Really sad news!!!
Very sad
Why did it occur inside Pak? it must be from Indian agents, trying to spread anarchy. we need investigation and then publicly declare the report.