Death toll in masjid blast goes up to 14

Hyderabad, May 19 (UNI) The death toll in yesterday's bomb blast in the Mecca Masjid rose to 14 with two more victims succumbing to their injuries in hospital this morning.

Police said the two died while undergoing treatment at a hospital early today.

Twelve people were killed and more than 50 injured when an explosion ripped through a heavy congregation at Friday prayers at the historic masjid near Charminar.

Meanwhile, security has been tightened in sensitive areas of the Old City where the masjid was located, besides the world famous Charminar.

Rapid Action Forces (RAF) and para-military forces had been deployed in sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incidents.

All India Masjlis-Ittehadul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) has given a bandh call in the capital today in protest against the blast.

Official sources said Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil would arrive in the city and review the law and order situation with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekahara Reddy and the state police.

UNI