WEB DESK:
Security agencies investigating the deadly suicide bombing at an imambargah in Islamabad have arrested several close relatives of the attacker and killed a key facilitator as nationwide counterterrorism operations intensify.

Officials confirmed that the suicide bomber was identified as Yasir, son of Bahadur Khan. His brother-in-law was arrested during a raid in Karachi, while his brother was taken into custody in Peshawar as part of coordinated intelligence-based operations across multiple cities.

Authorities also reported that a central facilitator linked to the attack was killed during an operation in Nowshera. The individual was believed to have played a crucial role in providing logistical support and assisting in planning the attack.

In a major breakthrough, investigators arrested the bomber’s mother from a residence in a posh sector of Islamabad. Officials said her arrest would help trace the attacker’s movements, contacts and support network prior to the bombing.

Meanwhile, funeral prayers were held on Saturday for victims of the attack, which targeted Imambargah Qasr-i-Khadijatul Kubra in Islamabad’s Tarlai area during Friday prayers. At least 31 people were killed and over 160 injured, making it the deadliest attack in the capital since 2008.

Authorities warned the death toll may rise and vowed to bring all those involved to justice.