A terrorist attack at the Imam Ali Mosque in the Wadi Al Kabir area of Muscat, Oman, has resulted in the deaths of four people and injuries to several others. The Royal Oman Police confirmed the incident, stating that gunfire erupted near the mosque.
Authorities have implemented necessary security measures and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred during a mourning ceremony attended by over 700 people, primarily members of the Pakistani community.
According to Arab media, an exchange of gunfire took place between security forces and the assailants. However, the number of attackers and casualties remains unclear.
The police confirmed the deaths of four individuals and “several others” injured in the attack at the mosque in eastern Muscat.
A statement released on the social media platform X by the Oman Police stated that all necessary security measures and procedures have been taken to address the situation, and authorities are collecting evidence and launching an investigation into the incident.
Later in the day, Pakistan’s Foreign Office confirmed that the attack on a mosque in Oman had resulted in the deaths of four Pakistanis. Another 30 Pakistanis were injured in the attack.
“Pakistan strongly condemns the dastardly terrorist attack on Imam Bargah Ali bin Abu Talib in Wadi Kabir in Muscat, Oman that resulted in multiple casualties including the death of four Pakistanis,” the Foreign Office said in a statement.
The statement said that the Pakistani embassy is in contact with authorities for identification and repatriation of the mortal remains of the martyred Pakistanis.
“It has also opened a helpline to respond to queries from the Pakistani community in Oman and to facilitate them. Ambassador Imran Ali is also visiting local hospitals to inquire about the well-being of injured Pakistani nationals,” the statement added.
In reaction to the incident, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that he was saddened by the terrorist attack on Imam Bargah Ali bin Abu Talib, resulting in the loss of precious lives, including 4 Pakistani nationals.
“My heart goes out to the families of the victims. I have instructed the Pakistan Embassy in Muscat to extend all possible assistance to the injured and visit the hospitals personally. Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Sultanate of Oman & offers full assistance in the investigation,” he said in a social media post.