UAE Consulate in NY warns citizens following explosion

Dubai: The UAE Consulate in New York has warned Emiratis to stay on the alert after an explosion in Manhattan on Saturday night left 29 people injured.

In a series of tweets, the consulate emphasised that, “UAE citizens in New York city should exercise caution and avoid public places”.

Mayor Bill de Blasio called the blast an “intentional act”, but said there was no terrorist connection.  

In the event of emergencies, UAE nationals are also urged to call local police at 911 or to contact the UAE Consulate in New York at 646 630 2575.

According to earlier reports, De Blasio said the blast was “an intentional act” and tried to calm any fears among nervous New Yorkers.

He said the explosion had no terrorist connection and was not related to a pipe bomb explosion earlier Saturday in New Jersey at a charity run.

A law enforcement official told Associated Press that the explosion appeared to have come from a construction toolbox in front of a building. New York officials said the incident was not due to a gas leak.

The blast happened on West 23rd street, in front of a residence for the blind, near a major thoroughfare with many restaurants and a Trader Joe’s supermarket.

Witnesses say the explosion at about 8.30pm blew out the windows of businesses and scattered debris in the area.

Officials said no evacuations were necessary.