Chandigarh: Two unidentified youths allegedly attacked a liquor shop in Chandigarh by throwing a bomb-like object inside the premises, triggering a loud explosion and panic among customers, police said.
According to the information available, the incident took place on September 14 between around 6:47 pm and 6:50 pm. The two suspects arrived outside the liquor shop on an Activa scooter. The youth sitting pillion allegedly threw an explosive-like object through the service window.
However, the object reportedly fell near the feet of customers instead of landing inside the shop. A loud explosion followed within seconds, causing panic and a stampede-like situation outside the liquor outlet.
The two suspects fled the spot on the Activa immediately after the incident. Shop manager Varinder Singh informed the police control room by dialling 112.
Police Examine CCTV Footage
Following the information, personnel from Sector 11 police station reached the spot and inspected the area. Police collected evidence from the scene and are examining CCTV footage from cameras installed around the liquor shop to identify the suspects and trace their escape route.
The shop operator has also handed over CCTV footage showing an unidentified woman allegedly recording a video outside the liquor shop several days before the attack.
Woman Seen Recording Video Five Days Before Attack
According to the shop operator, the woman was captured on CCTV around 11 am on September 9, nearly five days before the explosion. She was allegedly seen standing outside the liquor shop and recording the premises on her mobile phone.
Police are looking into the woman’s identity and the purpose of her presence near the liquor shop. The operator has requested that her activities be investigated to determine whether she was conducting any reconnaissance or had another reason for recording the premises.
The shop operator has also urged police to examine CCTV footage from the surrounding area and identify both the woman and the two Activa-borne suspects. Investigators are also examining whether there is any connection between the woman’s alleged recording on September 9 and the attack on September 14.
Motive Behind Attack Yet to Be Established
The motive behind the attack remains unclear. Investigators are examining whether the alleged attackers intended to damage the liquor shop, intimidate employees and customers, or had some other criminal objective.
Police have not yet confirmed whether the object thrown by the suspects was actually a bomb or an explosive device. The nature of the object and the cause of the explosion will be established through forensic examination and analysis of evidence collected from the scene.
Shop Operator Seeks Increased Security
The shop operator has also sought enhanced security for the manager and employees. He has requested increased police patrolling around the liquor shop, particularly at night, along with closer monitoring of the surrounding area.
Police are continuing their investigation and are examining available CCTV footage and forensic evidence to identify the suspects and determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion.