At least forty killed in a Shia Muslim mosque in southwestern Pakistan - 2003-07-04

In southwestern Pakistan's city of Quetta, an attack by unidentified assailants on a Shia Muslim mosque resulted in the deaths of nearly forty people, with soldiers patrolling the streets. According to Major General Javed Cheema, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, two of the three attackers opened fire on worshippers, while the third detonated an explosive device, killing himself in the process. The attack, which occurred today, also left dozens injured. Authorities are working to identify the attackers. Witnesses reported seeing two other men outside the mosque fleeing after the explosion. One of the attackers, who was injured in the return fire from mosque guards, has been arrested. A large crowd of Shia Muslims took to the streets of Quetta today, firing into the air, damaging vehicles, and burning tires. No one has yet claimed responsibility for the mosque attack. Pervez Musharraf, the President of Pakistan, who is on an official trip to Paris, condemned the attack and the subsequent killings, stating that the perpetrators would face severe repercussions.