Accused Dominic Martin in Jehovah’s Witnesses Convention Blasts Remanded to Judicial Custody

Dominic Martin, the lone accused in the IED blasts that shook a gathering of the Christian sect Jehovah’s Witnesses in Kochi on October 29, has been remanded to judicial custody for 30 days by a court in Ernakulam. The blasts, which took three lives and injured over 50 individuals, sent shockwaves through the community and led to a swift investigation.
During his court appearance, Dominic Martin expressed his intention to represent himself, opting not to seek legal counsel. The court accepted his plea and acknowledged the seriousness of the charges against him. In the coming days, a test identification parade will be conducted, and the police are expected to file a request for his custody after its completion.
Sole Accused in Kochi IED Blasts Faces Legal Proceedings
Martin, a 57-year-old former English tutor and Gulf returnee, was subjected to a lengthy round of evidence collection by the special investigation team (SIT) at his residence in Athani. The police discovered incriminating materials, including batteries, electric wires, and containers with stored petrol, in the house. Although the apartments he owned were rented out, Martin had a room in the building that he used intermittently.
In a video posted on social media, Martin had claimed responsibility for the blasts, stating that he “reacted” against the Jehovah’s Witnesses sect, of which he was once a member, due to what he perceived as “anti-national and seditious” teachings and ideals. The authorities acted swiftly to arrest him after he surrendered at the Kodakara police station and submitted key evidence linking him to the crime.
This tragic incident underscores the importance of addressing religious differences and conflicts through peaceful means and dialogue rather than resorting to violence, which can have devastating consequences. As the legal proceedings against Martin continue, the hope remains that justice will be served and that such incidents can be prevented in the future.
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