20 dead in Pakistan suicide attack (Third Lead)

Islamabad, May 4 (IANS) At least 20 people died in northwest Pakistan Friday when a suicide bomber blew himself up in a market.

The attack took place around 8.00 a.m. in Bajaur tribal area. Over 40 others were injured, Xinhua reported.

The teenaged bomber struck when security personnel were patrolling the market in Khar town. At least eight security men were among those killed.

The huge blast destroyed five vehicles and four shops. A curfew was imposed later.

Security was beefed up after the attack and two accomplices of the bomber were arrested. Suicide vests, pistols and grenades were seized from them.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani have condemned the attack.