Srinagar, Nov 15: Nalin Prabhat, Director General of Police, Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday said that the explosion at Nowgam Police Station late Friday night was accidental.
He said that a large quantity of explosives and chemical materials recovered during an ongoing investigation had been brought to Nowgam Police Station and stored according to procedure.
Prabhat explained that because the materials were highly sensitive, handling and sampling for forensic examination were being conducted with utmost care.
“Even with all safety measures in place, an accidental explosion occurred last night. The incident claimed nine lives and left 29 people injured. The investigation into the circumstances is ongoing,” he said.
The DGP listed the deceased as one SIA officer, three personnel from the Forensic Science Lab, two crime scene photographers, two revenue officials, and one tailor associated with the team.
He added that 27 others, including police personnel and civilians, were hurt and are being treated at hospitals in the area.
Prabhat confirmed that the police station building suffered significant damage, and nearby structures were affected.
“J&K Police extends support to the families of those killed and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured,” he said.(KNS)
