Published Feb 10, 2025 | 11:07 AM ⚊ Updated Feb 10, 2025 | 11:07 AM
The convention centre where the blasts occurred in Kochi. (Supplied)
Synopsis: The Kerala police, probing the October 2023 blast in Kochi is set to seek the assistance of Interpol to check whether there was any foreign interference in it. The blast, allegedly planned and executed by Dominic Martin, in a convention centre near Kochi had claimed eight lives.
The investigation into the bomb blast at a convention centre in Kochi in October 2023 has taken a significant turn with investigators uncovering foreign connections linked to the accused, Dominic Martin, sources said on Monday, 10 February.
Eight people lost their lives and several others were injured following the series of blasts at a gathering of the followers of Jehovah’s Witnesses — a Christian sect — in Kalamassery near Kochi.
The investigation team has sought the assistance of Interpol to probe the foreign links.
According to sources, Martin had sent images of the bomb he allegedly prepared to three foreign phone numbers. Following this revelation, authorities sought Interpol’s assistance to further the probe.
Martin had spent a long time in Dubai. However, they could not conduct a detailed investigation in the UAE due to legal restrictions.
The state government has authorised Kerala Police’s Interpol liaison officer, Crime Branch Inspector General, to engage with UAE authorities, pending Union government clearance.
The investigation will focus on Martin’s activities in Dubai, including his workplace, personal connections, and any potential criminal involvement. Officials believe this could provide crucial insights into the case, and any additional evidence uncovered may be presented in court.
The chargesheet in the case was filed in April, detailing Martin’s alleged role in the blasts. Authorities continue to probe possible external influences and motives behind the attack.
Over 50 people were injured, some seriously, during the multiple blasts at an international convention centre in Kalamassery. They had gathered for the final day of a three-day-long prayer meeting of the Jehovah’s Witnesses.
A few hours after the incident, a man — Dominic Martin — said to be an estranged member of Jehovah’s Witnesses, surrendered before the police in Thrissur district, claiming he carried out the multiple blasts. The police later recorded his arrest.
In addition to Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) (punishment for murder) and Section 3 of the Explosive Substances Act, relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) have also been invoked against Martin.
Several cases were also registered following the blast against spreading hatred via social media in connection with the blast.
Cases were registered against Union Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar, BJP leader Anil Antony, right-wing vlogger Lasitha Palakkal and others.
(With inputs from Sreelakshmi Soman)
