Blast in Madrassa kills at least 11 including 7 children and a woman

JULY 13: The death toll of Mian Channu blast has reached to 11 as two more blast victims died in the hospital.

70 are reported injured, several said to be in critical condition.

Mian Channu is located about 90 kilometres east of Multan in Southern Punjab where Islamic militants are said to be active.

During rescue operations at the blast site, Rockets, bombs and other explosives were recovered.

Police said around 25 homes were flattened due to the force of the explosion.

According to The News citing sources, blast took place at a house of Hafiz Riaz where children were gathered for religious education. Several houses were destroyed in the blast as many people are still trapped under the rubble.

Rescue operations are underway. Dr. Naeem of tehsil headquarter hospital has confirmed the killing of nine people include seven children, a woman and a man.

DCO Khaniwal said the situation is unclear. Police sources said the blast formed a big crater at the scene. The injured were rushed to hospital among which 12 are reported in critical condition.

PM Gilani has condemned the blast and called inquiry report.