ATS launches probe after bombs found in Bodh Gaya

Patna: The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) of the Bihar Police has launched a probe after two bombs were found last night at Bodh Gaya where the Dalai Lama is at present on a visit, a top police official said on Saturday.

A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team is likely to join the investigation shortly, Inspector General of Police, Patna zone, N H Khan said.

The two bombs were found from the pilgrimage centre after an explosion-like sound was heard amid stringent security measures in view of the Dalai Lama's stay.

"We have thoroughly sanitised the area where high security measures have already been there in view of the importance of the place. CCTV footages are being collected for investigation.

"The matter is being thoroughly probed by the ATS.

Moreover, a team of the NIA is likely to reach Bodh Gaya soon," Khan said.

The bombs were found in the vicinity of the Kalachakra ground during an intensive combing operation by a police team led by DIG (Patna Range) Vinay Kumar, Khan had earlier said.

The explosion-like sound was heard shortly after the Dalai Lama completed his discourse and retired for the day at a Tibetan monastery, he said.

"During the operation, a burst thermos flask was found at the kitchen. This might have caused the sound," the IGP said. Khan also said the bombs have been secured at a "secluded spot" where they will be defused by a bomb disposal squad.