By Adeosun Christiana Pelumi (SIWES student D S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic)
A suspected terrorist attack targeted a regional convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the southern Indian state of Kerala on Sunday, October 29, 2023.
The incident occurred shortly after the opening prayer, where at least two bombs detonated. With over 2,200 attendees, initial reports suggested that two individuals lost their lives, and at least 55 others were injured. Law enforcement is actively investigating the situation.
Kerala’s Director General of Police, Darvesh Saheb, has expressed a strong commitment to identifying the culprits and taking appropriate action.
Preliminary findings indicate that it was an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion.
Reuters reported that an individual named Dominic Martin claimed responsibility for the attacks on Facebook and later surrendered to the police in Thrissur district, approximately 40 km from the explosion site. He is currently undergoing questioning.
Jehovah’s Witnesses, a Christian denomination known for their unique beliefs and door-to-door proselytism efforts, have our sympathy and prayers for all those affected by this tragic event.
