A very low-intensity blast took place near the Israeli embassy in central Delhi on Friday, barely 2km from where the Beating Retreat Ceremony was underway.

No injury was reported.

Delhi police said the low-intensity blast took place at 5.05pm.

“A very low-intensity improvised device went off at 5.05pm near 5 APJ Abdul Kalam Road. There was no injury to any person, nor any damage to property. Windowpanes of three cars parked on a pavement were found to be damaged,” a spokesperson for Delhi police said.

He said the blast “appears to be an act of mischief”.

“Initial impressions suggest a mischievous attempt to create a sensation,” the spokesperson added.

A preliminary probe revealed the bomb was planted on a flower pot on the pavement. “The area has been cordoned off. A forensic team has reached the spot to examine the explosive used for the blast. The CCTV footage from the area is being scanned to see who planted the explosive. Security has been tightened in and around the high-security area,” a police officer said.

In a tweet, foreign minister S. Jaishankar said: “Spoke just now to Israeli FM @Gabi_Ashkenazi about the explosion outside the Israeli Embassy. We take this very seriously. Assured him of the fullest protection for the Embassy and Israeli diplomats. Matter is under investigation and no effort will be spared to find the culprits.”

In February 2012, an Israeli diplomat’s wife was among four people injured in a blast after a magnetic bomb stuck to a vehicle went off in Delhi.