Pakistan mosque blast: At least 28 killed after explosion in Peshawar

 In an explosion at a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan, at least 28 people have died.

More than 150 people were hurt in the explosion, which occurred when the mosque was crowded with worshipers.

Authorities claim that there are persons buried under the debris because a portion of the building was damaged.

Unknown as to why the explosion occurred, an official claimed that police were the intended target and that the majority of those killed were officers.

According to security officials, a bomber who was seated in the mosque's first row detonated himself. No one or group has acknowledged doing it.

 According to Muhammad Ijaz Khan, a police officer for Peshawar's capital city, between 300 and 400 police officers were present in the vicinity when the incident occurred.

Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister, has harshly denounced it. Mr. Sharif claimed in a statement that those responsible for the tragedy "had nothing to do with Islam."

"The entire country is standing united against the scourge of terrorism," he continued.

Near the nation's border with Afghanistan, in the northwestern city at around 13:30 (08:30 GMT), the explosion happened during afternoon prayers.

Half of a wall has collapsed, as seen in a viral video that was confirmed by the BBC. People scramble through the debris to exit the mosque, which is covered with bricks.

 More bodies are being removed from the mosque as a rescue effort continues, according to Shafiullah Khan, deputy commissioner of Peshawar.

Mr. Khan continued, "Right now, saving lives of those trapped under the rubble is our top concern."

Some of the injured people, according to Lady Reading Hospital spokesman Mohammad Asim, are in critical condition.

Mr. Asim remarked, "It's an emergency issue."

The BBC was informed that Lady Reading Hospital in Peshawar had declared an emergency and that they were still receiving patients who had been hurt in the explosion. They are also asking for blood donations.

Another attack occurred in Peshawar last March, this time killing numerous people in a Shia mosque.

In the capital, Islamabad Police issued a security high-alert and said security at all entry and exit points to the city had been increased.