3RD LD: Blast in Pakistan's Rawalpindi kills at least 30

0 Comments | Asian Political News, Nov 9, 2009

ISLAMABAD, Nov. 2 Kyodo

(EDS: ADDING INFO ON BLAST INCIDENT IN LAHORE IN BOTTOM 2 GRAFS)

At least 30 people were killed and 50 injured in a powerful explosion Monday in the Pakistan garrison city of Rawalpindi adjoining the capital Islamabad, according to local media.

The blast occurred in the outside parking area of the National Bank of Pakistan near the Shalimar hotel, Aaj TV news reported. There was no immediate claim or responsibility.

Geo TV quoted police sources as saying a suicide bomber riding a motorcycle blew himself up at 10:40 a.m. near banks and travel agencies' offices, about 500 meters away from the Pakistani army's headquarters.

Later in the day, two suicide bombers riding an explosive-laden car blew themselves at a police check post at the entrance to Lahore city, leaving 15 people injured, police officials said.

Among the injured were several police officers, they said.