(http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/MSNBC/Components/Photo/_new/121026-afg-faryab-315a.photoblog600.jpg)ReutersAfghan policemen carry the body of a civilian after a blast hit worshipers gathered for prayers in the northern province of Faryab on Friday. By NBC News and wire reportsKABUL, Afghanistan -- A suicide bomber blew himself up outside a mosque in northern Afghanistan on Friday, killing 40 people and wounding more than 50, government and hospital officials said.
The attack in the town of Maymana, capital of northern Faryab province, came as people were gathering at the mosque to celebrate the Eid al-Adha holiday, said Jawid Didar, spokesman for the governor's office.
Top provincial officials, including the governor and the police chief, were inside the building when the bomber set off his explosives outside, where a large crowd had gathered, Didar said. The officials were not hurt, but the casualties included police officers and soldiers, he said.
NBCNews
Even the festive period was not spared of the evil terrorist attacks