Mangaluru autorickshaw blast 'act of terror,' says police chief

Mangaluru auto blast: The autorickshaw blast in Mangaluru, Karnataka, on Saturday was not an accident, but an "act of terror with the intent to cause serious damage," the state police chief confirmed on Sunday.

Karnataka Police is investigating the matter with central agencies, he added.

"It's confirmed now. The blast is not accidental but an ACT OF TERROR with the intention to cause serious damage. Karnataka State Police is probing deep into it along with central agencies," DGP Karnataka tweeted.

The driver and a passenger were both injured and were taken to the hospital on Saturday.

Karnataka Home Minister Araga Jnanendra also suspected it was a terrorist attack.

In response to the incident, Karnataka Home Minister said that the state police have launched an intensive investigation into the auto-rickshaw blast in Mangalore.

"Along with the state police, central investigation teams will also join hands. The investigation will proceed swiftly," he added.

"Persons injured in the act are being given good treatment," he further said.

Earlier on Saturday, Mangaluru City Commissioner of Police (CP) N Shashi Kumar stated, "At around 5 pm today, an auto rickshaw caught fire in the Kankanadi Police Station area. The reason behind the fire was a bag being carried by a passenger riding in the auto. The auto driver and passenger sustained burn injuries and have been admitted to the hospital."

CP Kumar further appealed to the local people not to believe any rumour.

"Forensic Science Lab team has been called to probe the reason behind the fire. The public should not pay heed to any rumours," he said.

Further investigation is underway.