New Delhi: Investigators have revealed that a timer-based low-intensity improvised explosive device (IED) was employed in the recent explosion at a convention center in Kerala, which resulted in two fatalities and more than 50 injuries. In response to the incident, the Central government swiftly dispatched specialized teams from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the National Security Guard (NSG) to take over the investigation.
The explosion occurred around 9:30 am on a Sunday at a private convention center in Kalamassery, Kerala, during a meeting of Jehovah’s Witnesses, a Christian sect. A person named Dominic Martin, who claimed to be a member of the religious group but expressed disagreement with some of its teachings, has taken responsibility for the blast.
Following the attack, Union Home Minister Amit Shah contacted Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and offered all necessary assistance. He subsequently deployed an NIA team, including a superintendent of police (SP) and forensic experts, along with an NSG bomb disposal unit to the crime scene. The NSG operates a national bomb data center that analyzes the types of IEDs used in explosions across India to identify patterns.
Investigators present at the crime scene, speaking on condition of anonymity, reported the discovery of batteries and wires, indicating the use of a timer-based device. A forensic examination will confirm the type of explosive used. Although there were no signs of shrapnel designed to increase the blast's impact, the IED was placed near an oil container to intensify the fire. Officials are not ruling out a potential terror connection to the attack.
Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb assured reporters that all angles were being examined, and stringent action would be taken. A high-ranking police officer, speaking on the condition of anonymity, mentioned that Dominic Martin, who claimed responsibility for the blast, is the primary suspect and is under questioning. He is likely to be arrested on Monday.
Martin presented some evidence of his involvement in the blast and claimed to be a sect member. Law enforcement agencies are jointly interrogating him to uncover potential involvement by other suspects. Background checks, examination of social media profiles, and associations are part of the ongoing investigation.
In the meantime, a preliminary FIR has been filed by the police without naming a specific suspect. The FIR includes sections 302 and 307 of the Indian Penal Code, Section 3(A) of the Explosive Substances Act, 1908, and 16 (1)(a) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (Amendment 2012).
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