Kannur: Two houses sustained minor damages after unidentified persons launched an explosive near Kathiroor in Kannur district on Thursday, police officials said.

The police were informed about an explosion at the Mouvancherry Peedika region around 12.15 am. Upon arrival, they noted the presence of a strong scent of explosives and found that the windowpanes of two nearby houses had been damaged, the officials added.

The residents told the police that they did not see the persons behind the explosion. Police have increased security in the area, noting the possibility of political clashes following the incident. It is suspected that a high-intensity cracker was used for the blast, an officer added.

A case has been registered at Kathiroor police station under section 192 (wantonly giving provocation) and section 288 (negligent handling of explosive substances) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The police added that they are trying to identify those involved in the explosion.