Srinagar, Nov 15 (JKNS): J&K Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat on Saturday described the deadly blast at Nowgam Police Station as an accidental and deeply unfortunate incident, confirming that nine personnel lost their lives while 27 others were injured.
Speaking at a press briefing in Srinagar, DGP as per news agency JKNS said the explosives involved had been seized from Faridabad during an active investigation and were temporarily housed at Nowgam Police Station as part of the technical process.
He explained that the explosives were “highly volatile and unstable,” and a specialised team was carrying out sampling and inspection work when the mishap occurred late Friday night.
“Even with all safety protocols in place, an accidental detonation took place, leading to the loss of nine precious lives and injuring 27 others,” Prabhat said, adding that the probe connected to the recovery is progressing and that “all other circulating claims are unfounded.”
He said the nine victims included one SIA official, three FSCL experts, two crime photographers, two revenue officials, and one tailor assisting in protective gear preparation.
According to the DGP, 27 others among them civilians and uniformed personnel suffered varying injuries and are undergoing treatment in different hospitals.
He said the station building had sustained “major structural damage,” while several nearby residential houses were also affected. Teams from police and district administration are assessing the full scale of the destruction.
“J&K Police extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died and wishes a quick recovery to everyone injured in this tragic event,” the DGP said. —(JKNS)
