THE DEVICE
Bomb concealed in bag was built by expert, say sources
THE terrorist bomb that claimed 22 innocent lives was built by someone with a “deep knowledge” of explosives, experts believe.
Investigators think Salman Abedi carried it inside a rucksack rather than a suicide vest, because of the nature of how his blown-apart body was found.
The preliminary finding that a “highly skilled” bomb maker was involved fuelled speculation that Abedi, 22, was part of a large terror cell.
Leaked images from the US showed he carried a powerful explosive in a metal container concealed in the large Karrimor backpack.
Evidence gathered by British authorities shows that 14 victims died in a circle around Abedi.
The bomber was blown apart – his torso landing 30ft beyond the ring of bodies and landing outside near the foyer doors. His blood was found smeared on the detonator amid debris.
Experts said their findings indicated a powerful charge and a bomb containing carefully packed shrapnel.
The forensic pictures taken from the foyer of Manchester Arena show the metal nuts, bolts and screws propelled by the blast that killed several of his victims.
The blast was so powerful that shrapnel penetrated metal doors, left deep scars in brick walls and damaged the tiled marble floor.
Preliminary findings have led investigators to believe it was the work of a skilled bomb maker, fuelling speculation Abedi was part of a large terror cell.
A US source said the images suggest the bomb was similar to devices used by Isis in Syria and Iraq, but had a 12-volt Yuasa battery normally used in alarm systems. They added: “The bomb was constructed with precision and packed to cause the maximum loss of life.
“By the way Abedi’s body was found it was clear he was instructed just when and where the bomb should be detonated. The people around him did not stand a chance.”
Last night, CCTV emerged apparently showing Abedi buying a rucksack like the one used in Monday’s attack.
It was taken in Manchester’s Arndale shopping centre last Friday at about 8pm. He withdrew £250 from a nearby cash machine before buying the bag.