High-level probe under way as firecracker explosion claims two lives in Kozhikode

The police have launched a high-level investigation into the death of two persons in a major firecracker explosion at Kurikkathur, near Kunnamangalam, in Kozhikode district of Kerala on Saturday (April 4, 2026) night. Forensic experts collected samples from the spot for detailed inspection.

Madathil Parambil Rahul, 26, and his brother-in-law ,Puthiyottu Meethal Rahul 27, succumbed to the injuries on the spot. The massive explosion took place in their rented house around 10 p.m. Three others, P.M. Vishnu, his wife, Sini, and their relative, Shijith, sustained grave burns and were admitted to the Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital.

According to police sources, the explosion took place on the top floor of the house where the five were reportedly engaged in making firecrackers ahead of the Vishu festival. The house was rented out to the family nearly four months ago. Local residents and house owner were not aware that the building was used for manufacturing firecrackers.

When the local people reached the spot hearing the loud burst, the whole area was in ruins. They said the sound of the explosion was heard in a nearly one kilometre radius. Fire and rescue squads reached the spot following the distress call of a resident.

Following the incident, the police carried out flash inspections in several suspected firecracker manufacturing units in the village. A senior police officer said the firecracker manufacturing was done secretly without obtaining any license. He also said the reason behind the sudden burst was yet to be ascertained.

Revenue department sources said an intensified inspection would be carried out in all local manufacturing units and retail shops to audit the safety measures in the wake of the festival season. They said panchayat-level squads would be formed soon to coordinate the local inspections with the support of the police.