The main suspect in the series of blasts that took place at a prayer meeting in Kerala on Sunday has claimed to have learned bomb-making techniques from the internet. Dominic Martin, a 48-year-old expert in electric circuits, revealed that he spent approximately Rs 3,000 to create the bombs. Martin’s family has been residing in a rented accommodation near Kochi for over five years. He had previously worked as a foreman in the Gulf, where he acquired the skills to assemble electronic devices. Martin returned from the Gulf just two months ago with the intention of carrying out the blasts, according to sources. Initial investigations suggest that the improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were constructed using low-grade explosives commonly found in firecrackers. Sources have revealed that Martin assembled the IEDs in his home before placing them inside the convention hall, with the intent of causing harm to the participants of the Jehovah’s Witnesses convention. Prior to surrendering, Martin posted a video message on a social media platform, in which he claimed that he made the decision due to the organization’s “seditious” teachings. He alleged that he had asked them to stop, but his concerns were ignored. Convinced that the community posed a threat to the nation, he decided to orchestrate the series of blasts. The blasts resulted in the deaths of two women and a 12-year-old girl, while 50 people were injured. The convention center in Kalamassery near Kochi was hosting approximately 2,000 people at the Jehovah’s Witnesses convention when the blasts occurred. Eyewitnesses reported that multiple explosions took place within minutes of the prayer meeting starting, with the first blast interrupting the middle of a prayer. Although the group had an evacuation plan, the presence of smoke led to a stampede. The National Investigation Agency (NIA), known for its expertise in counter-terrorism operations, will be investigating the serial blasts.
Sources Reveal Kerala Serial Blasts Accused’s Meager Rs 3,000 Investment in Bomb-Making
