Reuters

At least six people have been killed after an explosion at a historic mosque in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad, police say.

A number of others were injured in the explosion at the Mecca Masjid, one of biggest mosques in the country.

It is not yet clear what caused the explosion at the entrance of the mosque during Friday prayers.

News channels showed people running out of the mosque and ambulances pulling up to take the injured to hospital.

Injured

The blast took place as thousands of Muslims were wrapping up Friday prayers at the Mecca Masjid.

Hyderabad is one of the biggest cities in southern India, and a growing software and biotechnology hub. It has a large Muslim population.

The mosque is located in the old city which is predominantly Muslim and very congested.

Many in the congregation ran for cover, some covered in blood.

Police and emergency services are now at the site which has been cordoned off.

There are fears that the number of dead could rise further. Police say some of the injured are in a serious condition.

Last year more than 35 people were killed after bomb attacks near a mosque in the western state of Maharashtra. It is still not clear who carried out those attacks.