Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

A homemade bomb detonated in a popular cafe in Bengaluru, India’s tech hub, injuring at least eight people.

The explosion occurred around 1pm at Rameshwaram Cafe, a spot frequented by office workers from nearby businesses. Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, described the device as a “small improvised explosive device” that caused immediate panic among the customers.

Siddaramaiah revealed that initial findings suggest the bomb was concealed in a bag left by an earlier customer. “Around eight people were injured in the incident,” he stated, vowing of “strict action against the culprits.” Divya Raghavendra Rao, a co-founder of the cafe chain, reported that there were two blasts within seconds of each other, occurring near the area where customers wash their hands. G Parameshwara, the State Home Minister, confirmed that all injured individuals were hospitalized but none faced life-threatening conditions.

The aftermath of the blast was captured in mobile camera videos, showing smoke enveloping the cafe and customers with bandaged hands being assisted away from the scene. At the moment, police have not released information on who is responsible for the attack or what the potential motive could be.