A BLAST CAUSED by “homemade” explosives has injured four people and sparked a major security alert at the main international airport in Shanghai, China.
The blast at Pudong Airport occurred near the check-in counter of Terminal Two today, according to a statement from the operator.
The official Xinhua news agency, citing authorities, said a “homemade explosive” blew up and hurt four people including one who suffered from self-inflicted injuries – suggesting he set off the device.
The other injured included a man from the Philippines, as well as a 67-year-old man and a 64-year-old woman — both described as Chinese, Xinhua reported.
The Xinmin Evening News said there were two explosions within five seconds. They originated from two pieces of luggage placed about 15 metres apart, the local paper said.
Online video clips showed dense grey smoke rising to the ceiling of the cavernous terminal, and paramilitary security forces rushing into the building immediately after the incident.
Photos posted online by those claiming to be witnesses showed police keeping people back from the scene and abandoned luggage littering the floor.
The incident came as people returned home after a public holiday and just days before Thursday’s opening of a Disney theme park in Shanghai.
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