A suicide bombing ripped through a Shia Muslim procession today in north-western Pakistan, killing at least 22 people, injuring dozens and sparking riots during the Muslim sect's most important holiday.
Army troops took control of the area and a curfew was imposed as the Shiites vented their anger by burning shops and cars in Hangu, about 125 miles south-west of the capital, Islamabad, said a police spokesman.
Ghani ur-Rehman, the top district administrator, said 22 people were reported killed and more than 50 injured. He said more than 60 per cent of the town bazaar had been burned down in the violence that followed the bombing.
Interior Minister Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao said there had been three explosions. He said he had conflicting reports as to the number of dead.
An army officer, who did not want to be identified, said dozens of people were wounded. Mr Sherpao said troops had been sent to restore order after angry Shias went on the rampage and burned shops.
Riffat Pasha, police chief of NWFP said there had been some shooting into the air after the blasts.
"We have sent armoured personnel carriers there, and the Frontier Constabulary is also there," he said. "The situation is pretty much under control."