On 29th October, Sunday morning, an unexpected tragic incident occurred at a Jehovah Witness Convention center where around 2,000 people had gathered for prayer, in the Kalamassery area of Kerala’s Ernakulam district. Suddenly, multiple explosions took place and as a result of it unfortunately, a woman lost her life and over 50 members sustained injuries. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called the incident as both “unfortunate” and “serious,” and has called for an all-party meeting.
Following this IED blast, Kerala police have heightened security across the state, suspecting terrorist involvement in the incident. Preliminary assessments are happening towards considering it a terror attack.
As per the reports, a suspect has been found at Kannur Railway Station. The explosive device was reportedly concealed in tiffin boxes within the hall, where a Jehovah’s Witnesses prayer meeting was underway.
At Thrissur’s Kodakara police station a man named Dominic Martin surrendered, taking responsibility for planting the bomb. Martin, who is a Jehovah’s Witnesses member, also arrived at the station on a motorcycle. ADGP (Law & Order) Ajith Kumar, mentioned that evidence has been obtained and currently it is under verification.
Meanwhile, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) team in Kochi is actively investigating the blast. Fortunately, the impact is not extreme due to a prepared evacuation plan in case of emergencies. Evacuees promptly followed safety protocols while aiding in minimizing casualties.
In Kozhikode, strict security checks were conducted at Palayam and Mofusil bus stands, as well as Muthalakkulam Maidan, with the help of a bomb squad. The Railway Protection Force and dog squad ensured a security sweep at Kozhikode Railway Station.
State Police Chief Shaik Darvesh Saheb warned not to spread unauthorized information on social media, and also mentioned strict action against those involved in passing on fake news.
