U.S. condemns suicide attack at Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's shrine in Pakistan

Washington D.C. [United States], Feb. 17 (ANI): The United States has strongly condemned the terror attack at Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's shrine in Sindh's Sehwan town on Thursday, which claimed the lives of at least 70 people and left scores injured. "We extend our condolences to the victims and their families and wish a full recovery for all of those injured. We also offer our support to the Government of Pakistan as it works to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice," U.S. State Department Acting Spokesperson Mark C. Toner said. "Today's attack is only the latest in a series of violent acts this past week in Lahore, Balochistan, Peshawar and Mohmand Agency.," he added. Toner said the U.S. stands with the people of Pakistan in their fight against terrorism and remains committed to the security of the South Asia region. He further assured that the U.S. will continue to work with the Pakistan Government and their partners across the region to combat the threat of terrorism. "So far 70 people have been killed and more than 150 wounded," Dawn quoted Inspector General Police Sindh A.D. Khawaja as saying. The Assistant Superintendent of Police in Sehwan said a suicide bomber entered the shrine through its Golden gate. The attacker blew himself up after throwing a grenade, which failed to explode, he said. The explosion took place in the area where dhamaal (a Sufi ritual) was being performed after evening prayers. A large number of devotees, from across the country, frequented the shrine on Thursdays as it is a popular day to visit Sufi shrines. Pakistan Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has also directed that immediate assistance be provided to civil authorities. Army contingents have been dispatched along with medical personnel. The shrine is dedicated to Syed Muhammad Usman Marwandia, a 12th century Sufi who was born in Marwand, present day Afghanistan. (ANI)