Detonations - Explosions at houses - police suspect connection
After several explosions at residential buildings in Cologne and Engelskirchen, investigators suspect a connection between the crimes, according to the police. The basis for this assumption are the "modus operandi" in the different cases and the types of "explosive devices" used, the police stated in the afternoon. There were reportedly no injured individuals according to initial findings.
Possible pyrotechnic "objects"
The police had initially reported over the weekend that there had been a total of three detonations in the entrance areas of residential buildings in Cologne on Saturday and Sunday nights - in the districts of Muelheim and Buchheim. It is believed that pyrotechnic objects were ignited, according to the police. Doors and windows were heavily damaged in the process. In Cologne's Keupstrasse, for example, guests at a bar heard a loud bang around 2:30 am, as the police explained. Shortly thereafter, smoke rose from the affected house.
On Monday morning, unknown individuals then triggered an explosion at a multi-family house in Engelskirchen east of Cologne. Several windows and an entrance door were also heavily damaged there.
Police increase presence
The police increased their presence near the crime scenes, according to their own statements. They also asked witnesses to come forward or provide relevant photos and videos via a tip line.
- The police in North Rhine-Westphalia are investigating if the explosions in Cologne and Engelskirchen are connected, as they share similarities in modus operandi and the use of explosive devices.
- Following the explosion in Engelskirchen, several pyrotechnic objects were found at the scene, further fueling the suspicion that an explosive device was used.
- The police in Cologne are urging anyone who witnessed the explosions or has any relevant photos or videos to come forward, as the investigation into the explosive device-related crimes continues.
