Several Arrested in Belarus over Minsk Metro Blast

Women cross themselves during a public prayer for the victims of terrorist bomb attack in an orthodox church in Minsk, Belarus. Photo by EPA/BGNES

The Belarus authorities have made several arrest in the aftermath of the Monday bombing in the Minsk metro that killed 12 people and injured 126.

The police have compiled images of two men suspected of the attack. The Belarus Deputy Prosecutor was quoted on state TV as saying that several people had been arrested, without giving a number or any other details.

The radio-controlled bomb, packed with nails and ball bearings, exploded at Oktyabrskaya station Monday evening. It occurred just before 6 pm, during rush hour. The station is one of the busiest in Minsk, linking the city's two metro lines and it is located about 100 meters from the president's main office and residence.

It is believed the incident is a terrorist attack with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko stating it may have been "a gift from abroad" to destabilise the country. Lukashenko further said the attack may be linked to an explosion during Independence Day celebrations in 2008, in which 50 people were hurt. That crime was never solved.

Lukashenko ordered the police to "turn everything inside out" in their search for the bomber or bombers.

Russian investigators are scheduled to arrive Wednesday to assist Belarus in the search for the culprits.

Security forces are now conducting checks on all ammunition and explosives held by Belarusians, whether legally or illegally, according to local police reports, since Belarus was littered with ammunition after World War II.

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