MANILA, Jan. 1 (Xinhua) -- At least 22 people were injured when a grenade exploded in a residential area in Cotabato province in southern Philippines, shortly after midnight on Thursday, local police said.
Police said two men riding on a motorcycle lobbed the fragmentation grenade at the crowd as residents were welcoming the New Year along the national highway in Matalam town.
Based on witnesses' accounts, police said a black motorcycle slowed down as it passed the area where people were celebrating. One of the two men riding the motorcycle allegedly threw what was believed to be a hand grenade before speeding away. Seconds later, the explosive detonated, sending shrapnel flying and hitting several people, mostly on their lower extremities.
The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not yet released details on the condition of the victims.
Police have launched a manhunt operation and are coordinating with local officials and community members to identify the suspects.
Security has also been tightened in the area to prevent similar incidents as investigations continue. ■
