Just three days after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) recovered a huge cache of explosives in West Bengal’s Birbhum district, police have seized another large stockpile of explosive materials during a late-night raid in Nalhati, raising fresh concerns over illegal storage and possible criminal networks.
Raid follows recent NIA explosives seizure
Acting on specific intelligence, a special team from Nalhati Police Station conducted a raid on Tuesday night at a house in the Lakhnamara stone industrial area. During the search, officers recovered approximately 800 kg of ammonium nitrate, 12,400 gelatin sticks, 105 detonators, and 36 coils of detonating fuse, along with other materials used for blasting operations.
Bomb squad secures dangerous explosive materials
Following the recovery, the Bomb Disposal Squad was called to the spot, while police cordoned off the area to ensure public safety. The seized explosives were secured and taken into custody for further examination.
Police investigate source and intended purpose
According to preliminary findings, the house from which the explosives were recovered had been rented recently. Investigators are now trying to identify who was using the premises and why such a massive quantity of explosives had been stored there.
Illegal quarrying angle under detailed investigation
Police are probing whether the explosives were intended for illegal stone quarrying or if they were linked to a larger criminal or sabotage-related conspiracy. The source of the explosives, the supply network and the intended use are all under investigation.
Zero tolerance policy drives continued operations
Birbhum district police said the investigation is continuing and reiterated that strict action will be taken against those involved. Officials added that the district police remain committed to a zero-tolerance policy against crime and will continue similar operations to curb illegal activities.
