Kabul, November 23: In a major terror attack in Afghanistan on Friday, at least 26 were killed and over 50 injured after a suicide bomber blew himself up inside a mosque located in nation's eastern province of Khost. The casualties are feared to rise as several of the injured victims were rushed to the nearest Army hospital in a critical condition.
The fidayeen strike was carried out inside the mosque located in Afghan National Army camp, based in Mandozair district of Khost. At the time of blast, hundreds of security personnel had gathered at the mosque to attend the Friday congregational prayers. Over 40 Were Killed in Kabul in Blast on Eid-e-Milad.
Army spokesperson Captain Abdullah issued a statement confirming that the blast was carried out by a suicide bomber. Although no group has claimed responsibility of the attack so far, the role of the prime insurgent group - Taliban - has not been ruled out.
Another security official, while speaking to Reuters, confirmed the death toll as 26, whereas, those the number of those injured has cross the 50-mark.
The attack comes two days after a suicide bomber detonated himself at a congregation of Muslims who had gathered in Kabul for a religious event. The attack left at least 40 dead and over 72 wounded. While no group took responsibility of terror assault, the Taliban had issued a statement denying their involvement.
The attack, on the holy day, had drawn condemnation from heads of states across the world. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had issued a statement condemning the bloodshed and extending condolences to the bereaved families.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 23, 2018 04:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).