Puri: Police suo motu registered a case today in connection with Puri firecracker explosion that took place last night. Police have initiated a probe into the fatal mishap.

“An unfortunate incident occurred last night at Narendra Pokhari (a Holy Pond) in the pilgrim town Puri during the performance of Chandan Jatra rituals. On a priority basis, the injured were rushed to different hospitals for treatment. Subsequently, we registered a criminal case and launched a probe. A scientific team and a bomb disposal squad were pressed into service to accumulate physical evidence. The joint team has already visited the spot and collected the evidence. A detailed probe is underway,” said Puri Superintendent of Police (SP) Pinak Mishra while briefing mediapersons.

“It would not be appropriate to divulge any details as the case is pending,” the SP expressed in his reply to a question on 'who is involved in the incident' and 'who had brought the firecrackers without adequate authorisation from the local police'.

“Whoever is found to be guilty will not be spared and action will be taken against the wrongdoer(s) as per the provisions of Law,” the SP assured.

Worth mentioning, at least three persons including a minor died in the firecracker explosion, in which around 30 others sustained grievous injuries and are undergoing treatment in critical condition.