Security personnel inspect the blast site in Imphal on Wednesday. Picture by UB Photos

Imphal, Oct. 30: Another powerful explosion killed two persons and injured five at Moirangkhom in Imphal West today, barely 24 hours after an IED explosion wounded five persons.

The suspected IED explosion occurred around 6.15am at Moirangkhom bus stand, which also serves as a van parking area, under Imphal police station.

Those killed in the explosion were identified as L. Brojen Singh of Andro village and Holun Thouthang of Langol Game village.

The injured have been identified as Suyam Baite of Moreh, Robert Baite of Churachandpur, S. Naoba of Yaiskul Janmasthan, W. Aditya of Thounajam Mayai Leikai and L. Rajen of Kakwa Noarem Leikai. Among the injured, Rajen’s condition is serious and he is being treated at Shija Hospitals. The rest, who had suffered splinter injuries, are at RIMS.

Top police officials rushed to the spot and the area was immediately cordoned off. However, there was no report of any arrest in connection with the blast. No one has claimed responsibility for the blast either.

Deputy chief minister Gaikhangam, who inspected the blast site, came down heavily on the perpetrators saying it was a mindless act of terror.

“We cannot go through and check each and everyone if they are criminals. However, steps will be taken to prevent such attacks in the future after having a detailed discussion with the chief minister.”

A local resident, W. Dayabati, while condemning the act, said this is a parking area that is frequented by joggers in the morning.

Thangjama Haokip, a relative of Holun Tongthang, said there was absolute lawlessness in the state. Citizens should feel free but instead they are being killed by acts of terror, he added.

In another unrelated incident, a bomb was found planted at Moidangpok village in Imphal West today, merely 200 metres from National Highway 37, which is frequented by paramilitary troops. However, timely detection led to the defusing of the bomb.

Yesterday, a blast rocked Imphal at 6am at Marwari Dharmasala in Thangal Bazar injuring five persons, including two students.