Germany: Early-morning explosion rocks Cologne; no casualties
The time of occurrence is being seen as the major reason why not much damage was done as several glass windows were shattered in the impact
A major explosion rocked Germany’s Cologne city on Monday (September 16), though luckily there were no reports of deaths and one person reportedly received light injuries.
The blast reportedly took place outside Vanity nightclub in Cologne’s Hohenzollernring area, which is centrally located, around 5.50 am (local time, 9.20 am IST).
The time of occurrence is being seen as the major reason why not much damage was done as several glass windows were shattered in the impact. Had there been more people out on the streets during busy hours, there could have been casualties. A building was also reportedly badly damaged.
Police launch operation
The area is reportedly full of bars and restaurants and is known for its vibrant nightlife.
The police have launched a “major operation” on Hohenzollernring ring road and have asked residents to avoid the area in an X post. “The Hohenzollernring is closed between Rudolfplatz and Friesenplatz. Please avoid the area,” the post red.
A police spokesman reportedly briefed the media that there was no evidence of terrorism. They are reportedly going through surveillance footage for clues.
However, the incident comes days after a person allegedly carrying firearms were shot at by the police in Munich, near the Israeli General Consulate. The man was injured in the shooting.