An explosion occurred near a petrol pump in northern India’s Punjab, just two days before Diwali, sparking an investigation by local authorities and forensic teams. While no injuries or significant damage were reported, the petrol pump owner received an extortion demand of ₹5 crore shortly after the incident.

The incident took place near “Messrs. Sidhu Petrol Services,” a petrol pump situated on Sirsa Road, close to Dandiwal Resort, in Mansa district on October 27.

Visuals showed in the darkness of night, a blast occurred near a petrol pump, reportedly involving a hand grenade. Fortunately, the area was deserted at the time, preventing any harm. The explosion took place near the pump’s designated area, casting a sudden flash across the surroundings, yet leaving no damage or injuries in its wake.

According to reports, authorities arrived promptly after the incident, which occurred near Messrs. Sidhu Petrol Services on Sirsa Road, close to Dandiwal Resort. The explosion happened in a drain located about 50 feet from the petrol pump’s machines, averting a major mishap.

Mansa SSP Bhagirath Singh Meena stated that forensic teams from CFSL are investigating to determine whether a hand grenade or another explosive was used in the incident. Following the explosion, the petrol pump owner, Khushwinder Singh, received a WhatsApp call at 2:05 AM, which he didn’t answer. Minutes later, he started receiving threatening messages, demanding a ransom of ₹5 crore with threats against his life and that of his family.

Authorities have registered a case against unidentified persons under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. While similar explosives, including RDX, were recently discovered in Punjab, and a grenade attack occurred in Chandigarh, Mansa police are exploring all angles, including the possibility of involvement by foreign-based gangsters. Station House Officer Inspector Beant Kaur confirmed that an investigation into the extortion case is underway, with CCTV footage showing the explosion occurring around 1:31 AM.

As Diwali approaches, police have increased security measures, including special checking campaigns across Punjab to prevent any potential threats during the festive season.