23 killed, dozens injured in Islamabad Sabzi Mandi blast

Nearly 23 people were killed and dozen others injured when an explosion occurred in Islamabad Wednesday morning.

The blast occurred behind the Metro Shopping center in the Sabzi Mandi area of the capital city.

Initial reports suggest that the explosive material was planted inside a box containing fruits, Dawn News reports.

Police said that a remote controlled bomb containing five kilograms of explosive material was used in the blast.

Police also arrested a 'suspicious' person from the location of the blast.

The attack occurred just prior to the Corps Commanders' Conference, which is set to be held today.

The attack came a day before the April 10 ceasefire by Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ends.