UPDATE 2 - At least 2 injured in shooting near mosque in southern Sweden

UPDATE WITH REMARKS FROM SWEDISH ISLAMIC FEDERATION

By Anadolu Staff

ISTANBUL (AA) - Two people were injured in a shooting following Friday prayers near a mosque in the southern Swedish city of Orebro, local media reported, citing an eyewitness.

Suspecting that the loud bangs were caused by a suspected shooting near the Orebro Mosque, Swedish police said two people have been injured, without specifying the extent of the injuries, according to the broadcaster SVT News.

The broadcaster reported, citing local sources, that several shots were fired shortly after Friday prayers ended and people began to leave.

A preliminary investigation into the incident has begun.

While a large police operation is reportedly underway in the area, several rescue units and police officers, as well as seven ambulances, are on the scene.

Police suspect the shooting was gang-related, according to information obtained by the Swedish daily Aftonbladet.

They also believe it was an "isolated incident," not directly targeting the mosque.

President of the Swedish Islamic Federation Tahir Akan told Anadolu the attack was not directed at the mosque or its congregation and was not motivated by “racism.”

He explained that a person waiting near the mosque had a “personal dispute” with two people attending Friday prayers.

"As planned in advance, the attacker shot and injured the two people he had a dispute with as they were leaving Friday prayers. Since there was a doctor among the congregation, the first intervention was carried out by the doctor. I was informed that one of the injured is in serious condition, while the other sustained minor injuries,” he said.