Serial blasts in Kerala: 48-year-old suspect surrenders

Kochi: In a shocking incident, a series of explosions occurred at a convention center in Kalamassery of Kerala during a Jehovah’s Witness convention. Hours after the blasts, a 48-year-old man has surrender before police, claiming being responsible for the serial blasts

The suspect, identified as Dominic Martin, has claimed that he belongs to the same Christian denomination that organised the prayer meet.

The attack transpired during a gathering of nearly 2,000 people at the convention center, located approximately 10 kilometers from Kochi. Witnesses at the scene reported that the first blast struck in the middle of a prayer session, causing panic and chaos among the attendees. Authorities later revealed that explosives had been concealed inside a tiffin box.

Kalamassery MP Hibi Eden commended the group for their emergency preparedness, noting that an evacuation plan was swiftly activated after the initial explosion. However, the presence of smoke triggered a stampede, exacerbating the situation.

Currently, 45 injured individuals are receiving treatment in various hospitals within the district, with 18 of them in intensive care. Five of the wounded are in critical condition.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his condolences and affirmed that the situation is under close scrutiny, with senior police officials en route to the blast site. In response to the gravity of the situation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), specializing in counter-terrorism operations, will conduct a thorough investigation. NIA’s forensic team has already begun collecting evidence.

Also Read: 1 Killed, Over 20 Injured In Blast At Convention Centre In Kerala

Visuals from the scene depicted a massive response effort, with fire rescue and law enforcement personnel rapidly evacuating attendees. The area surrounding the convention center has been cordoned off as part of security measures.

Inside the convention center, distressing videos captured multiple fires and terrified individuals, including children, crying out in fear. Some attendees attempted to extinguish the fires amidst the chaos.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George has issued a directive for all healthcare workers to report for duty in response to the incident, underscoring the need for immediate medical assistance.