Violence Erupts in Madurai as Petrol and Kerosene Bombs Used

Madurai experienced a troubling escalation of violence on the evening of January 25, 2026, as petrol and kerosene bombs were thrown in two neighborhoods, leaving two youths injured in a separate hacking incident. The violence unfolded between 20:30 and 21:00 local time, raising concerns about public safety in the area.

According to senior police officials, three unidentified assailants on two motorcycles launched a petrol bomb near the Subramaniapuram market and a kerosene bomb near Mahalakshmi Nagar, located in the Solai Alagupuram locality. Shortly thereafter, another group attacked two young men near Jaihindpuram, inflicting injuries before fleeing the scene. The victims were promptly transported to the Government Rajaji Hospital for medical attention.

Police Response and Investigation

Following these incidents, personnel from the Jaihindpuram police station, along with senior officers, quickly arrived at both locations to initiate an investigation. Authorities are exploring various angles, including the possibility that these attacks may be retaliatory actions linked to a prior incident in Perambalur.

On January 24, a violent confrontation occurred in Perambalur, where assailants targeted a police escort team transporting a suspect, Vella Kali, a known gangster from Dindigul. During this incident, two policemen were injured when the attackers hurled country-made bombs at the police convoy. The violent episode escalated when the police stopped at a roadside hotel near Iraiyur village, leading to further injuries among the officers.

Inspector General of Police (Central Zone) Balakrishnan confirmed that the attack was a calculated attempt to kill the gangster being escorted. He praised the officers for their quick reaction, noting that a sub-inspector fired warning shots at the attackers, causing them to flee. The injured officers were taken to Perambalur Government Hospital for treatment, where Balakrishnan visited them to offer support.

Authorities have since formed five special police teams to conduct a large-scale search operation for the assailants involved in both the Madurai and Perambalur incidents. The police assure the public that efforts to apprehend those responsible for these acts of violence are underway.

As tensions rise in Madurai, the community remains on alert, hoping for swift justice and a return to peace.