A massive blast has rocked a shopping centre, triggering a lockdown as police swarm the area and terrified shoppers flee in panic.

The Alejandría Shopping Centre in downtown Cúcuta, Colombia has become the epicentre of a major security operation after reports of an explosion left several people injured. The injured are being rushed away from the scene on public transport, according to local accounts.

Dramatic footage shared online captures the chaos that ensued at the bustling mall, with people seen running for their lives following the alleged blast. In one harrowing clip, bystanders can be seen aiding an apparently wounded individual, while others dash for the exits amidst the pandemonium. Another video circulating on social media depicts a man being apprehended by police in handcuffs outside the shopping centre.

Local news source areacucuta has reported that the Metropolitan Police of Cúcuta have confirmed the arrest of a suspect thanks to the prompt action of law enforcement officers, reports The Mirror.

The report also mentions that at least two individuals have sustained injuries during the incident. Social media posts further suggest there could be multiple casualties.

A witness recording the aftermath expressed urgency on X/Twitter: "#Attention #Urgent A powerful explosion has just occurred minutes ago near the Alejandría shopping center, in the central area of #Cúcuta . Injured people are being reported".

As of now, the investigation into the motive is ongoing, and no further details regarding arrests or suspects have been disclosed. In a horrifying incident back in 2017, three women tragically lost their lives in a terrorist attack at a shopping centre in the Zona Rosa area of Bogotá, the capital city. The authorities confirmed that an additional eleven people were injured in the attack.