Muscat, July 17 — At least nine people have been killed and several others injured after a gunman opened fire near a mosque in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The incident occurred on Tuesday in the Al-Wadi Al-Kabir area, according to a report by the BBC.

Omani police confirmed the casualties in a statement, noting that the shooting took place near the Imam Ali Mosque. The attack resulted in the deaths of three assailants on the spot. 

The Sunni jihadist group Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that three of its members were involved. The group's supporters have celebrated the shooting on social media platforms. IS has a history of targeting Shia Muslims during religious ceremonies and worship in countries like Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, but this marks the first claimed attack by the group in Oman, where Shias are a minority.

Videos circulating on social media show chaotic scenes with people running in fear as gunfire erupted near the mosque. Many can be heard shouting "Oh Hussain" amid the panic.

The police have launched an investigation into the attack and stated that a man fired indiscriminately, killing four people instantly. Authorities have implemented stringent security measures and completed the evidence collection process as part of their investigation.

This tragic incident has shocked the nation, which has generally been spared from the violent sectarian attacks that have plagued its neighbors. The Omani government has pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of all its citizens.