The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted extensive searches on Saturday, seizing several digital devices, documents, and other materials, including gelatin sticks, in connection with the probe into the seizure of a large cache of explosives from Tirurangadi in Malappuram district, Kerala.
Searches Across Three States
According to an NIA statement, the searches were carried out at 19 premises linked to the accused in the case, as well as at the houses of dealers and manufacturers of explosives in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. The operation aimed to unravel the supply chain involved in the unlawful procurement of explosive substances and their intended use.
Six Accused Arrested
So far, six accused persons have been arrested in the case, which the NIA said has grave national security implications due to the huge quantum of illegally procured explosives. The explosives were seized by the Kerala state police in February of this year.
Details of the Explosives Seizure
The case was initially registered by local police after the seizure of a truck packed with a large quantity of explosives, parked in the compound of Faba Hollow Bricks company at Chemmad-Thalappara Road in Malappuram. The seized explosives included 89,600 gelatin sticks packed in 448 boxes and 10,500 non-electric detonators in 35 boxes.
The entire consignment was reportedly procured without a valid license and was intended for illegal and unlawful activities. The NIA took over the investigation in April.
Probe to Uncover Supply Chain
The NIA's probe is focused on unraveling the supply chain involved in the unlawful pilferage of explosive substances and their intended use. According to sources, the raids in Kerala were conducted at Tirurangadi, Vandoor, Eranjimavu, and several locations in Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
Origin and Intended Use
Police investigation revealed that the explosives originated in Bijapur, Karnataka, and were intended for illegal quarrying. The case was registered under sections 4 (possession of explosives with intent to endanger life or property) and 5 (possession under suspicious circumstances) of the Explosive Substances Act.
