A huge explosion has occurred near the Palace of Justice in Damascus, Syria, as a cafe is reportedly hit by the blast, and multiple casualties are feared. The explosion took place in a coffee shop in the Hejaz area of Damascus on Thursday, according to state media, incuding state agency SANA, which said at least five people died.
State-run Al-Ikhbariya television added that the nature of the blast was not immediately clear. SANA also said at least 16 people were injured.
According to the latest information from the scene, the nearby Palace of Justice was not damaged by the blast. The blast was reportedly caused by an improvised explosive device.
State agency SANA also said authorities have launched an investigation and the area has been cordoned off.
The explosion took place near Damascus’ Hejaz Railway and the Palace of Justice, and Al Jazeera added there were “numerous injuries”.
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