8 killed in blast near Sharif's residence in Pakistan

At least eight persons, including four policemen were killed tonight when a powerful blast took place near the residence of Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif in Lahore.

Punjab Health Minister Salman Rafique said, at least eight persons, including four policemen, lost their lives and 20 others have been injured in the suicide blast which targeted a police check post in Raiwind on the outskirts of Lahore. 

According to Deputy Inspector General Police Lahore Dr Haider



Ashraf, the condition of some policemen is critical.Rescue spokesman Jam Sajjad said, the Rescue ambulances are shifting the injured to the Sharif medical complex and other nearby hospitals. Pakistan Rangers quick response force has reached the spot and cordoned off the area.

Meanwhile, IG Punjab Captain (retd) Arif Nawaz Khan has directed to declare a security high alert in the province.

No militant group has claimed the responsibility of the blast so far.