Bomb explodes in Pakistan cinema

A bomb has exploded in a cinema in Karachi in southern Pakistan, killing at least one person and injuring several others.

Police say the Prince theatre in the city centre was not very crowded when the blast occurred.

A police spokesman says at least one person has been killed and eight others have been taken to hospital.

Mohammad Farooq, who was in the audience but escaped unhurt, says: "The bomb exploded with a terrible bang, and then there was panic all over. Everyone started to run for the exits."

The ceiling of the cinema was badly damaged in the blast. Several shoes left in haste were scattered in the theatre.

The explosion comes a day before local elections are due to be held in Karachi and several other cities. No group has claimed responsibility for the blast.