There were 2,000 people at the convention centre when the blasts took place, police said.
One person was killed and 45 others were injured after multiple explosions at a religious gathering in Kerala today. At least three blasts took place just minutes after a prayer meeting of Jehovah's Witnesses began at a Kochi convention centre.
What We Know So Far:
There were 2,000 people at the convention centre when the blasts took place - the first one at 9.47 am - according to officials. Sunday was the last day of the three-day meeting, which started on October 27.
Police said those injured were undergoing treatment in various hospitals in the district, of which five people are in critical condition.
Hours after the blasts, a 48-year-old man claimed responsibility and surrendered.
Improvised Explosive Device was used in the attack, said Kerala Police, adding a special investigation team will be constituted to probe the case. The explosives were kept in a tiffin box, said sources.
The anti-terror agency NIA is probing the case. A team of the National Security Guard is also on its way.
Kalamassary MP Hibi Eden said the group "had an evacuation plan. But, there was a lot of smoke and a stampede happened". "There was a minor blast after a major blast. The place is sealed and cops have taken over," he added.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has termed the blast as “unfortunate”. State Health Minister Veena George has urged government healthcare professionals to report for duty following the blasts.
Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken to the Kerala Chief Minister over the blasts.
Witnesses recounted the terrifying moments following the blasts which occurred minutes after attendees began praying with their eyes closed. "The blast took place in the centre of the hall. I heard three explosions," said a witness.
Meanwhile, security was increased around churches and at metro stations in the national capital in the wake of the Kerala convention centre blasts.
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