JEDDAH – The post-attack strategy followed by Saudi authorities after the blasts at Masjid-i-Nabvi in Medina, under which the government denied any attack taking place, has reportedly saved hundreds of lives.
The horrific bombings took place when a suicide bomber detonated a device near the security headquarters of Masjid-i-Nabvi (PBUH) in Madinah, killing at least five security officials while hundreds of Muslims were breaking their fast inside the mosque .
Related: Five security officials martyred in suicide blast near Masjid-i-Nabvi
Immediately after the blast, Saudi authorities spread the news that security forces were conducting a mock emergency exercise in Madinah city, and denied reports of a bomb blast for a considerable period of time.
This strategy reportedly saved scores of pilgrims who were present inside the mosque, minimizing the chances of a deadly stampede. The strategy of misinformation, which sought to save thousands of precious lives, proved successful.
