By Andrew Haruna | The Bureau News
A deadly explosion rocked the Mar Elias Church in the Dweila neighbourhood of Damascus, Syria’s capital, on Sunday, causing panic and fear among residents and worshippers in the vicinity.
Eyewitnesses told Reuters that the blast appeared to be the result of a suicide bombing inside the church, although official confirmation has not yet been issued by Syrian authorities.
“There was a loud boom, and then screaming. People rushed out from the church. It was horrifying,” said one witness who asked to remain anonymous.
The extent of casualties and damage remains unclear as of the time of filing this report, but emergency responders were seen arriving at the scene shortly after the explosion.
Attempts to get a comment from Damascus security officials have so far been unsuccessful, as no official statement has been released regarding the incident.
This attack, if confirmed as a suicide bombing, would mark a rare act of violence in the heart of Damascus, a city that has largely remained under tight government control amid the broader Syrian conflict.
More details are expected as the investigation unfolds. The Bureau News will provide updates as they become available.