Officials say bomb in southern Pakistan hit bus carrying Shiite Muslim worshippers, 11 dead

Police: Bomb aimed at Shiites in Pakistan kills 11

KARACHI, Pakistan — Officials say a motorcycle bomb struck a bus carrying Shiite Muslim worshippers in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi, killing at least 11 people.

Karachi has seen a number of blasts aimed at minority Shiites in recent weeks, including one that killed dozens at a procession and sparked riots. Extremists belonging to Pakistan’s Sunni Muslim majority have been blamed.

Senior police official Javed Akbar said the bus targeted Friday carried mainly young and female Shiite worshippers heading to a religious gathering.

Dr. Simi Jamali said at least 11 bodies were brought to a local hospital.

Fearing sectarian unrest, police chief Waseem Ahmad appealed to Shiites in the city to remain calm.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

KARACHI, Pakistan (AP) — Police say a bomb apparently attached to a motorcycle exploded next to a bus carrying Shiite Muslim worshippers in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi.

Local TV reports said at least two people were killed in the Friday blast.

Karachi has seen a number of blasts aimed at minority Shiites in recent weeks, including one that killed dozens at a procession.

Senior police official Javed Akbar said the bus carried mainly young and female Shiite worshippers heading to a religious gathering.

The apparent sectarian attacks are part of a wave of violence that has gripped Pakistan since the army launched an anti-Taliban offensive in the country’s northwest in October.

Police chief Waseem Ahmad appealed to Shiites in the city to remain calm.