Lahore: At least three people were killed and 23 are said to be injured in a bomb blast that rocked Lahore's Anarkali Bazaar area on Thursday, Pakistani officials said.
According to initial reports, a bomb was 'planted' in a motorcycle that blew in the area and caused casualties and injuries. The blast took place near the Paan Mandi, where Indian commodities are sold.
Police have said that the investigation is in the initial stage and the nature of the blast is being ascertained. Forensic teams are collecting evidence from the site.
Lahore police spokesperson Rana Arif confirmed the death of three persons in the blast that shattered windows of nearby shops and buildings, Dawn newspaper reported.
Early visuals show that several motorbikes and shops have been damaged in the blast.
No group has claimed responsibility for the blast so far.
"We are ascertaining the nature of blast. Over 20 people have been injured in blast and shifted to hospitals," news agency PTI quoted Deputy Inspector General Police Operation Dr Mohammad Abid telling reporters at the site of the blast near Lahore's historic Walled City.
As per latest information, the Counter-Terrorism Department and Bomb Disposal Squad officials have reached the spot and are examining the nature of the blast.
The injured have been shifted to the Mayo Hospital. Police have cordoned off the area. The whole Anarkali Bazaar is shut after the blast.