DHAKA: At least 23 people were killed and dozens injured, some critically, on Wednesday when an explosion occurred behind the Metro Shopping center in the Sabzi Mandi area of the capital city.

Police and rescue teams rushed to the site of the incident after the explosion occurred.

Initial reports suggest that the explosive material was planted inside a box containing fruits.

Police said that a remote controlled bomb containing five kilograms of explosive material was used in the blast.

Police added that boxes containing fruits were brought to the market from the Punjab province.

The blast occurred at a time when labourers and early morning shoppers were busy purchasing fruits.

Police initiated a search operation and cordoned off the area.

Police personnel claimed that the incident appeared to be an act of terrorism.

Police also arrested a `suspicious` person from the location of the blast. Sabzi Mandi is situated in the sector I-11 of the capital city and a kachi abadi of Afghan nationals is also located in the same sector.

According to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences Vice Chancellor Prof. Javed Akram, 31 injured in the blast were given medical treatment in the hospital and the death toll was likely to increase.

The attack occurred just prior to the Corps Commanders’ Conference which will be held today.

Source: DAWN

BDST: 1134 HRS, APR 09, 2014