SHABQADAR: Tragedy struck a mosque in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Charsadda district on Sunday night when gunfire erupted during Taraweeh prayers, leaving four people dead and several others injured, according to police and local officials.
The incident took place at the Aldadkhel Mosque located in the Battagram area of Shabqadar tehsil. Witnesses reported that the shooting began inside the mosque while worshippers were engaged in prayers, causing panic and chaos among those present.
Dispute Turns Deadly
Preliminary information suggests that the violence was the result of a long-standing dispute between two groups. The confrontation escalated inside the mosque premises, resulting in multiple casualties.
Authorities identified the deceased from one side as Parvez, son of Mehrdal, and Inayat, son of Jan Muhammad. From the opposing side, Ayaz, son of Torsam, and Zakir Ayaz, residents of Aldadkhel in the Battagram locality of Shabqadar, were confirmed dead.
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Several other individuals sustained injuries in the exchange of fire. However, the exact number of wounded persons has not yet been officially disclosed.
Emergency Response
Following reports of the shooting, teams from Rescue 1122 Shabqadar promptly arrived at the scene. Ambulances transported the deceased and injured to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Shabqadar for medical treatment and necessary procedures.
Emergency officials stated that swift action helped prevent further loss of life.
Police Investigation Underway
Local police have registered the case and initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Law enforcement officials said efforts are ongoing to collect evidence and identify those responsible for the violence.
The tragic event has cast a shadow over the holy month, raising concerns about security during congregational prayers in the region.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm while investigations continue.
