Kerala Blasts Suspect Described as “Exceptionally Intelligent” by Police
Dominic Martin, the man who surrendered to police claiming responsibility for the recent blasts at a Christian prayer meet in Kerala, has been described as a “brilliant mind” by investigating officers. Martin had left behind a lucrative job in the Gulf, leaving many puzzled about his motives.
On Monday, the police formally recorded Martin’s arrest after he surrendered a few hours following the blasts. The next day, the Special Investigation Team accompanied Martin to his residence in Athani near Aluva, where they suspected the explosive devices were assembled, in search of crucial evidence.
Over the course of several hours, Martin provided a detailed account of the construction process, using the materials he claimed to have used in the explosion that killed three people and injured over 50. When he surrendered, Martin had produced bills for the purchased materials, further strengthening the case against him.
The police also noted Martin’s proficiency in electronics. Despite wearing a face-covering mask, Martin was presented before the court on Tuesday. It was announced that an application would be submitted for a test identification parade at the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court on Wednesday, as part of the legal process.
Although the court offered Martin legal assistance multiple times, he insisted on representing himself, stating that it was his choice and dispelling any notions of financial difficulties. The accused has been charged under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (Punishment for murder), Section 3 of the Explosive Substances Act, and relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The blasts occurred at a convention center in Kalamassery, where a prayer meeting of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, a Christian religious group, was being held. Prior to surrendering, Martin released a video message on social media claiming responsibility for the blasts and stating his reasons. He criticized the teachings of the organization as “seditious” and deemed Jehovah’s Witnesses and their ideology dangerous for the country.
The investigation team is still trying to comprehend why Martin, who had a successful career abroad, would allegedly be involved in the blasts. As the case progresses, more information is expected to come to light.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
