At least 17 people have died in a suicide attack on the home of an MP in Pakistan's Punjab province, police say.
Dozens were injured in the bombing, which took place at a reception hosted by MP Rasheed Akbar Nawani.
He is a member of the PML-N party led by former PM Nawaz Sharif. Mr Nawani himself escaped with slight injuries.
Attacks targeting Pakistani leaders have increased, as the army continues operations against Taleban militants in tribal regions near the Afghan border.
Monday's attack happened in the town of Bhakkar.
Mr Nawani was receiving guests in the house when a suicide bomber walked into the reception and blew himself up.
Police say the casualties could rise as many of the wounded were in a critical condition.
Punjab province has seen relatively little of the violence waged by Islamist militants in recent years.
Last month more than 50 people were killed in an attack on the Marriott hotel in the capital, Islamabad.
^ Back to top | BBC Sport Home | BBC Homepage | Contact us | Help | ©
~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~43~RS~)