THERE is an outpouring of sympathy in Bradford today following a bomb blast at a mosque in Pakistan.

The death toll is continuing to rise – with reports claiming it is now in the 90s – after the explosion in Peshawar yesterday.

Over 200 people are reported to have been injured in the incident, which is believed to have been targeted against police officers who were praying at the mosque – which is located within the heavily-controlled police headquarters area.

Bradford MP Naz Shah, who is of Pakistani descent, took to Twitter to give her condolences.

In a tweet posted at midday yesterday – before the death and injury tolls had risen to where they are now – Ms Shah said: “Extremely tragic to hear that at least 28 people have been killed and 150 injured in a blast at a mosque in Peshawar.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all those that have lost their loved ones in this horrific attack.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

West Yorkshire-based charity Penny Appeal, which has carried out extensive work in Pakistan, told the Telegraph & Argus that it was horrified by the incident.

Ahmad Bostan, its director of communications, said: “Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the people of Peshawar during this tough time.

“Pakistan was the first country where Penny Appeal delivered life-changing projects, and we are committed to helping its people through all disasters and struggles they’ve faced.

“Going forward, we are here to do whatever we can to support the people of Pakistan.”

Bradford community figure Dr Javed Bashir, who was born in Pakistan and moved to Keighley at the age of ten, called the attack a “crime against humanity”.

“This is an extreme example of barbarity – especially as the majority of the victims were innocent worshippers,” he said.  

“Everyone who possesses even a grain of humanity has cried at this. My heart is filled with love and compassion for the victims and their families.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Zafar Afsar, another Bradfordian of Pakistani descent, heads up local community organisation Project YouTurn.

He told the T&A that he was “heartbroken” by the attack, which he described as “appalling”.

“At a time when the Pakistani economy is struggling, these attacks will cause further damage, and are an attempt to destabilise the country,” he added.

“Politically motivated hatred generated by politicians in Pakistan is a huge factor in this. Pakistan needs political stability to combat internal and external terrorism.

“Unfortunately, that will not happen with the current politicians and their selfish agendas.”