Tricycle used to transport bombs: paper

The man accused of being behind the explosions that killed more than 100 people in Shijiazhuang on March 16 transported 575kg of explosives by tricycle and planted the bombs alone, according to a newspaper report.

The Guangzi-based Nan Guo Morning News published a detailed account of what it said were the events leading to the arrest of Jin Ruchao, prime suspect in the blasts in the Hebei province city.

After Jin allegedly murdered his lover in Yunnan province, he flew to Tianjin municipality outside Beijing, the newspaper said. He then entered neighbouring Hebei province, where he bought 575kg of explosives for 950 yuan (HK$883). He allegedly took the explosives to Shijiazhuang, the provincial capital, where he lived.

At 2am on March 16, he allegedly packed the explosives on to a tricycle and transported them to four locations, targeting relatives and neighbours.

After the blasts, he fled in a taxi and travelled south. He was seen trying hitch a ride on Thursday night in Beihai city, Guangxi province. Jin was arrested on Friday morning.

He is said to have been carrying a bag containing several tubes and a box of explosives when captured. 'I am the person you are looking for,' Jin was quoted as saying. 'No need to ask further.'