Teams of counter-terror sleuths and National Security Guards (NSG) have been sent to the Jehovah Witnesses Church in Kalamassery in Kerala after an improvised explosive device exploded at the Sunday prayer meeting this morning. One woman died and another 23 were injured in the first hinterland blast after many years with CT operatives on the spot.
The explosion occurred at around 9.30 AM, when the church was packed with worshippers for the Sunday prayer meeting. The blast caused widespread damage to the church building and shattered windows of nearby houses.
The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, where some of them are said to be in critical condition. The police have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation.
The motive behind the blast is not yet known, but the police are suspecting a terror attack. The NSG team is assisting the local police in the investigation and carrying out anti-sabotage checks in the area.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the state, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemning the blast and calling for an urgent probe. The Union Home Ministry has also expressed its concern and assured the Kerala government of all necessary assistance.
Source: Hindustan Times
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