The blast occurred outside  Data Darbar shrine in the city.

The target of the blast was reportedly an Elite Force van, reports said.

King Edward Medical University Vice Chancellor Professor Khalid Gondal told Dawn News the death toll has risen to nine (including a suspected attacker), while the condition of four of the injured is critical.

Some of the injured people admitted to Mayo Hospital.

Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Arif Nawaz confirmed to Dawn News that five Elite Force personnel were martyred in the blast.

The incident occurred at around 8.45 am.

The impact of the blast shattered the windows in nearby vehicles and buildings, bystanders told DawnNewsTV.

Police believe that the blast was carried out by a suicide bomber.

The Punjab chief minister's spokesperson, Shahbaz Gill, told Dawn News that the attacker was a 15-year-old boy. The teenager came out of a fruit shop, crossed over to the police van, and then exploded his suicide vest, Gill said.

Pakistan PM condemns:

Pakistan PM Imran Khan has condemned the incident.

Khan tweeted :"Strongly condemn the terror blast outside Data Darbar this morning. Have asked Punjab govt to provide all assistance to the injured & families of victims."