(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Bombs outside two churches in the Pakistani city of Lahore killed five people and wounded more than 40 during Sunday services, rescue workers said, and witnesses said quick action by a security guard prevented many more deaths.
A Pakistani Taleban splinter group claimed responsibility.
The blasts in a majority Christian suburb of the eastern city went off minutes apart. Police said it seemed that the blasts targeted two churches that are very close to each other.
"I was sitting at a shop near the church when a blast jolted the area. I rushed towards the spot and saw the security guard scuffle with a man who was trying to enter the church, after failing, he blew himself up," said witness Amir Masih.
"I saw his body parts flying through the air."
The guard died as well, he said. It was not clear if the first blast was also a suicide bomber, Masih said.
Rescue services spokesman Sajjad Hussain said five people had been killed and more than 40 people injured.
"The rescue operation is still underway and the death toll may increase," he said.
Taleban splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the blasts.
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