Imambargah suicide bomber was trained in Afghanistan: Talal Chaudhry

Islamabad (Web Desk): Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Friday confirmed that the tragic explosion at an imambargah was carried out by a suicide bomber.

Authorities have reportedly gathered important intelligence about the attacker, including records of his repeated trips to Afghanistan.

Addressing the media, Chaudhry said the attack had backing from neighboring countries.

He noted that the incident was first reported to Islamabad authorities at 1:42 pm, and current reports indicate that 31 people lost their lives while more than 100 others were injured.

Hospitals across Islamabad have been placed on high alert, and Chaudhry remained at PIMS Hospital following instructions from the prime minister and interior minister to monitor the emergency response.

He confirmed that the suicide bomber’s identity has been established, emphasizing, “He is not an Afghan national, but we now know in detail how many times he traveled to Afghanistan.”

The minister accused the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) of orchestrating the attack, describing it as an act of “extreme cowardice” targeting vulnerable locations.

He also shared that among the 31 victims was a cousin of the Islamabad Inspector General of Police.

Chaudhry stressed that the government is fully implementing the National Action Plan with no compromise on counter-terrorism efforts.

He added that the Interior Minister visited the imambargah and received a detailed briefing. “We are determined to win this war against terrorism,” he said.

“It is incomprehensible that people praying in a place of worship could be martyred in the name of religion.”

The minister repeated allegations that India was funding such attacks, claiming that its financial support for terrorism has tripled.

“These attacks are being carried out for money,” he stated. He also mentioned that Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns with Afghanistan, highlighting the favors extended to the neighboring country.

Despite losing a close relative in the attack, the Islamabad IG remained on duty in uniform, while the Interior Minister offered prayers at the site.

Regarding the ongoing investigation, Chaudhry said authorities are closing in on the facilitators and expect to resolve the case within 72 hours.

He also warned that no Afghan national would be allowed to remain in Pakistan illegally.