Bhatkal: The investigation into the crude bomb blast reportedly targeting Bhatkal MLA Mankal Vaidya, gathered momentum after the probing teams found suspicious materials in the vicinity of the blast site at Hosad village on February 27.
Briefing media, Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police (SP) Vinayak Patil said that a suspicious object had been found near the site where the blast took place on February 26. Even plants were covered in white powder upto a distance 80-100 meters from the blast site, he added.
Forensic teams have collected the suspicious material, samples of powder and are subjecting the same to further investigation. They will submit a comprehensive report post investigation, to the police, he stated.
The Bomb Disposal Squad had already collected blood stains, clothes and few other vital clues from the blast site, SP said.
Meanwhile, the injured Raymond Khaitan Miranda has regained consciousness but needs more medical attention. He cannot be subjected to investigation at this stage, SP Patil clarified.
One more person named Peter has been arrested in connection with the incident, SP Patil revealed.
Mankal Vaidya, who survived the suspected assassination bid on his life, has two gunmen guarding him. Considering yesterday’s blast, the security cover provided to the MLA will be enhanced, SP said.
Vaidya had narrowly escaped the crude bomb blast, suspected to be an assassination bid at Hosad village of Honnavar taluk on February 26.
