Nine people were killed and 32 others injured late Friday when a cache of confiscated explosives detonated inside a police station in Nowgam, on the outskirts of Srinagar in Indian-administered Kashmir, authorities confirmed. The blast occurred as officers and forensic specialists were preparing to examine the materials, which had been transported earlier in the week from Faridabad in the northern state of Haryana.
Regional police chief Nalin Prabhat said the explosion took place at approximately 23:20 local time (17:50 GMT) during what he described as a “very unfortunate” mishap in the handling of the evidence. He emphasized that preliminary findings indicate an accidental detonation. “Any speculation suggesting otherwise is unnecessary,” Prabhat told reporters, pushing back against rumors of militant involvement.
Blast Causes Widespread Damage
The impact of the explosion severely damaged the police station building and several nearby structures. According to police statements, the shockwave ignited multiple vehicles parked on the premises, leaving them completely burned out. A source speaking to Reuters said the force of the blast was so powerful that body parts were recovered as far as 100 to 200 meters from the site.
Among the dead were police personnel, members of the forensic unit, two crime-scene photographers, and a tailor assisting the team, officials said.
Incident Follows Deadly Delhi Car Blast
The accident comes only days after a deadly car explosion in India’s capital, Delhi, which the government has described as a terrorist act. Although there is no evidence linking the two incidents, the coincidence has heightened scrutiny over explosive-handling procedures and security protocols in the region.
Investigation Ordered by Lieutenant Governor
Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir appointed by the Indian government, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and announced a formal investigation. “I have ordered a probe to ascertain the cause of the accidental explosion,” he wrote on social media. “Deeply anguished by the loss of precious lives… My condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
The explosion is the latest tragedy in a region long troubled by conflict and heightened security tensions. Officials said additional safety reviews are expected in the coming days as the inquiry gets under way.
Source:Africa Publicity
