The attack underscored the persistence of Islamist militants in Pakistan. Many of the bombings that have hit this country have been linked to Al-Qaeda and the Taleban and have targeted police and other security forces. At the same time, sectarian violence between Sunni and Shiite Muslims remains a threat.
Thousands of Shiite worshippers were marking the end of the holy month of Muharram when the blast hit their procession early Tuesday evening. The bomber is believed to have been a young teenage boy, senior police official Aslam Tareen said.
Ahad Cheema, a senior government official in Lahore said most of the dead or wounded were members of the security forces who were involved in outer layers of security provided for the march.
Footage from the scene showed ambulances racing to the area and men carrying away victims. One young man whose arm was apparently hurt howled in pain as he was placed on a stretcher. A white car caught up in the explosion was largely obliterated, its hood twisted upward.
