Delhi Police probing mysterious blast sound, smoke outside Israel Embassy (Ld)

New Delhi, Dec 26 (IANS) The Crime Branch of Delhi Police has initiated a probe after an eye-witness claimed to have heard a blast sound and noticed smoke outside the Israel Embassy in Chanakyapuri.

“At around 5 p.m., while I was on duty, I heard a loud noise resembling a tire burst. Upon stepping outside, I saw smoke emanating from the top of a tree near the premises. The police have recorded my statement,” said the eyewitness, who works as a guard at a premises near the Embassy.

The Delhi Police are also on high alert following an alleged bomb threat call claiming that explosives have been planted near the Israel Embassy premises located in the diplomatic enclave of the national capital.

An unidentified caller contacted the Delhi Fire Service at around 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday, claiming the presence of a potential explosive device near the Israel Embassy.

Responding swiftly, bomb squads and police teams were dispatched to the spot to conduct a thorough search of the premises. After meticulous examination, no evidence of any explosive device was found.

Officials on the scene confirmed that so far it seems to be a false alarm, and there was no imminent threat to the Israel Embassy or the surrounding areas.

“So far, we have not found anything,” said Anil Garg, Director of Delhi Fire Service.

Meanwhile, Israel Embassy said that an explosion occurred in close proximity of the Embassy, adding that all the workers and diplomats are safe.

“This evening several minutes after 5 p.m., an explosion occurred in close proximity of the Embassy. All our workers and diplomats are safe. Our security teams are working in full cooperation with the local security forces and they will investigate the matter,” Deputy Chief of Mission of Israel to India, Ohad Nakash Kaynar, said in a video statement.

–IANS

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