Bee attack creates chaos during bomb inspection at collectorate; 150 people stung, incl. Collector

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A bomb threat inspection at the Collectorate went wrong when a beehive was disturbed, causing a bee attack. Around 150 people were stung, including District Collector Anu Kumari and Sub-collector O.V. Alfred. The incident happened around 2 pm yesterday, creating panic as people ran to escape the bees.

The trouble began when a threatening email about a bomb was sent to the District Collector at 12:30 pm. It claimed the bomb was planted as revenge for Afzal Guru's execution. The bomb squad arrived around 2 pm and evacuated the employees to check for explosives. During the inspection, a large beehive in the building was accidentally disturbed, leading to the attack.

People tried to shield themselves using sarees, shawls, umbrellas, and helmets, but many were stung. Vehicles from the Collectorate and KSRTC buses were used to rush the injured to the Peroorkada Government Hospital. Those with severe injuries were later shifted to the Medical College Hospital in ambulances.

Eight people, including photographers, government employees, and officials, are being treated at the Medical College Hospital. About 79 others, who suffered minor injuries, were given first aid at the Peroorkada Hospital and sent home.

The bees attacked near the entrance as well. Many victims, including police, fire personnel, and media workers, were stung. The District Collector has promised steps to remove all beehives from the Collectorate to prevent such incidents in the future. No bomb was found during the inspection.