Kochi/New Delhi: The main suspect behind the serial blasts at a prayer meeting in Kerala’s Kalamassery has shocked investigators by claiming to have learned bomb-making techniques from the internet. Identified as 48-year-old Dominic Martin, the accused, who is reportedly skilled in electric circuits, revealed that he spent a mere ₹3,000 to create the explosives used in the attacks.
Martin, a former Gulf resident who worked as a foreman, returned to India approximately two months ago and allegedly assembled the improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at his rented accommodation near Kochi. Preliminary investigations indicate that Martin used low-grade explosives commonly found in firecrackers to construct the IEDs. He strategically placed the explosives inside the hall where a Jehovah’s Witnesses convention was taking place, aiming to harm the attendees.
Before surrendering to authorities, Martin posted a video message on social media, explaining his motives. In the video, he claimed that he targeted the convention because he believed the teachings of the organization were “seditious.” According to Martin, he had confronted the community, urging them to change their ways, but his concerns were ignored. Convinced that the group was detrimental to the nation, he resorted to engineering the serial blasts.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Sunday, resulted in the loss of lives, including two women and a 12-year-old girl, and left 50 others injured. The explosions disrupted a prayer meeting attended by around 2,000 people at the convention center. Eyewitnesses reported that the blasts occurred during the middle of a prayer session, causing panic and chaos among the attendees. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, focusing on the suspect’s online activities and connections to ascertain the full scope of the plot.
