An imam bargah was targeted in a bombing by unknown assailants in Dera Ismail Khan on Wednesday night.

The incident took place in Mady gate, in Dera Ismail Khan’s tehsil Kulachi. The Imam Bargah Imam Hussain is the main place of worship for the Shia population in the area.

According to local sources, the bombing was severe in nature and the imam bargah’s main gate sustained heavy damage. The bombing even damaged surrounding houses and shops. However, the interior of the bargah remained completely safe.

The caretaker of the imam bargah also remained safe in the attack as he is currently staying in Punjab.

The sources also said that firing broke out after the bombing and bullet holes were seen on the walls of the adjoining houses.

Police have launched an investigation and increased the level of security in the area. However, the nature of the explosion is yet to be determined.

Violence against Shias in DI Khan has a long history. In one of the most brutal attacks of its kind, over 30 people were killed in 2009 when a funeral procession of Shia man was targeted by a suicide bombing. Over 50 people were injured in the attack as well.