A 50-year-old Nepalese citizen was arrested by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) on Wednesday after being caught with two sticks of industrial explosives near the Indo-Nepal border in Pilibhit district.
Details of the Incident
The accused, identified as Kanahiya Rana, was intercepted by a patrolling squad from the SSB's 49th battalion while attempting to cross the Sharda river from the border village of Gabhia Sahrai. Upon searching him, officials recovered two 5-inch-long industrial explosive sticks, each weighing 125 grams and branded as "INDO SUPER POWER 90".
Following a complaint filed by SSB head constable Gokul Chand Jat, an FIR was registered at Madhotanda police station under the Explosives Act.
Preliminary Investigation
According to Puranpur circle officer Prateek Dahiya, the preliminary investigation revealed that Rana had been working as a laborer on infrastructure projects in Uttarakhand's Kedarnath area, where such explosives are frequently used for blasting mountains. Rana claimed that he had smuggled the explosives to mix the powder with organic oils as a makeshift treatment for a skin condition.
Police are currently investigating whether the explosives were stolen and are working to determine Rana's precise motives. The seized material has been sent to a government forensic laboratory for testing.
About the Author
Keshav Agarwal has been with The Times of India since June 1, 2014, currently posted in Pilibhit. He specializes in reporting on forest and wildlife, environment, water resources, agriculture, and the sugar and ethanol industries. He also covers a broad range of other topics, including health and medicine, education, development, and crime.
