4 hurt in Ukhrul blast
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, January 25 2023:
At least four people were injured when a powerful bomb exploded in Ukhrul town on Wednesday evening, a day ahead of the Republic Day celebration.
The explosion took place around 5 pm near Gandhi Chawk in front of Ukhrul town hall in Phungreitang bazar.
The blast left a small crater on the concrete platform where the statue of Gandhi stood, according to the police.
The injured have been identified as Manaowon (49) of Chingai village; An-gayung Rizat (39) of Lamlang village, Dr Wonyao Kasar (35) of Phungyar and P Leishingam (37) of Rone village.
They were immediately shifted to Ukhrul District Hospital at Naga Gate, Hungpung.
Later, Manaowon, who sustained splinter injuries on her right hand and stomach, has been referred to JNIMS, Imphal in a serious condition.
However, the two others were out of danger, police said.
Police also said that they are yet to establish the motive behind the explosion and suspected that it could be a hand grenade.
Nonetheless, an investigation is underway.
The blast also caused some minor damages to some vehicles parked on the roadside.
No armed group has claimed responsibility for the blast so far.
Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in the hill town ahead of the Republic Day celebrations.
Police collected pellets from the cradle of the explosion and suspect that it could be an improvised hand grenade.
Security forces have cordoned off the area for further investigation, the police said, adding that they could not ascertain the motive behind the blast.
No individual or organisation has so far claimed responsibility for the incident.
Meanwhile, Tangkhul Naga Long vice president Jollyson R Shimray strongly condemned the bomb attack and appealed to the perpetrators to refrain from such inhumane activities in the crowded place.