Japan has marked the anniversary of the world’s first atomic bombing in Hiroshima, 72 years on.

A sombre memorial ceremony in the city was led by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

“Here in Hiroshima city, I renew my pledge to do my utmost to bring about a nuclear free world and eternal peace. And I also pray for the peace of the atomic bomb victims and the bereaved families, those attending here as well as the citizens of Hiroshima city,” he said.

Doves of peace were released into skies where horror rained down on men, women and children.

The United States dropped the bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, killing thousands of people instantly and about 140,000 by the end of that year.

After US forces dropped another atomic bomb on Nagasaki three days later, Japan surrendered, bringing World War Two to an end.