China condemns suicide attack at Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's shrine in Pakistan

Beijing [China], Feb 18 (ANI): China 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 80 people and left scores injured. "Shocked at the terrorist attack in Pakistan's Sindh Province which has caused heavy casualties, the Chinese side strongly condemns the attack, mourns for the victims and expresses sympathy and condolences for the injured and the bereaved families," said China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang. He said the Chinese side opposes terrorism in all its manifestations, and will stand firmly behind the Pakistani side in its endeavor to combat terrorism, safeguard national stability and protect people's life and properties. According to the Express Tribune, the Islamic State group (IS) took responsibility for the attack, that took place in Sindh's Sehwan town. Assistant Superintendent of Police in Sehwan said that 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. The shrine is dedicated to Syed Muhammad Usman Marwandia, a 12th century Sufi who was born in Marwand, present day Afghanistan. (ANI)