Wagah attack: Toll reaches 61, terrorist used 20 kg of explosives

An improvised explosive device (IED) was found from parking area of the Wagah border on Monday, a day after at least 61 people were killed following the flag-lowering ceremony at the main India-Pakistan land border crossing.

The Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) was called to the site for inspection after the IED was recovered. The BDS then launched search operations surrounding Wagah border, The Nation newspaper reported.Meanwhile, security agencies arrested about 20 suspects from the India-Pak border area.

Ten women, eight children and three security personnel were among the 61 people who have died in the attack that took place on Sunday when a suicide attacker detonated a powerful bomb at Wagah. Over 100 people were injured in the incident and are being treated in different Lahore’s hospitals where emergency has been declared.

The blast took place when a large number of people were returning after attending the flag-lowering ceremony at the main India-Pak land border crossing, which is heavily guarded by the Punjab Rangers.

A young suicide-bomber blew himself up near the main exit gate of Parade Avenue at 6.03pm (local time), causing colossal devastation. 

‘The death toll of the devastating suicide attack at Wagah border has risen to 61. The condition of some injured is still critical and the doctors are battling to save their lives,’ Punjab Emergency Services Rescue spokesman Jam Sajjad told PTI.

About 43 bodies have been handed over to the families while the remaining are yet to be recognized, Sajjad said.

‘We have sought the help of the National Registration Database Authority (Nadra) for recognition of 18 bodies,’ he said.

The law enforcement agencies have launched operation in the residential areas in Wagah and taken about 20 suspects into custody, Lahore police spokesman Niyab Haider Naqvi said. ‘A joint investigation team of police, rangers and intelligence agencies have started its probe into the incident. The army and rangers along with police will provide security to Ashura processions in Lahore and they have been put on high alert in the wake of Sunday’s powerful attack,’ he said.