A day after an autorickshaw exploded under mysterious circumstances in Karnataka's Mangaluru, Karnataka Director General of Police (DGP) Praveen Sood confirmed that the blast is not accidental but an "act of terror". Meanwhile, Karnataka Home Minister Araga Jnanendra revealed that this is work by an anti-national terrorist organisation.
A cooker with batteries, wires and a circuit was recovered. It's suspected that a floor mat was used to hold this whole circuit in place inside the cooker. An ID card was found on the passenger being verified. A high-level probe is ordered into the matter.
Speaking about the incident, Karnataka Home Minister said, "The passenger who was injured in the auto blast in Mangalore yesterday is being treated at the hospital and now he is not in a condition to speak. But the investigation conducted by the police so far has revealed that this is the work of an anti-national terrorist organisation. The Central Intelligence Agency has also come to Karnataka to investigate the matter. The Karnataka Police will also conduct an investigation along with them."
Taking to Twitter, Karnataka DGP wrote, "It’s confirmed now. The blast is not accidental but an ACT OF TERROR with an intention to cause serious damage. Karnataka State Police is probing deep into it along with central agencies."
Two people were injured due to the explosion. News agency ANI, in a tweet, said, "Auto rickshaw driver and passenger injured after fire in an auto which originated from a passenger's bag. Both were shifted to a nearby hospital and are out of danger. FSL at the spot and further investigation ongoing."
(With inputs from ANI)