Birbhum, 25 July (H.S.): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted a major operation in Nalhati of West Bengal’s Birbhum district on Saturday and recovered a large quantity of explosive materials, including 20 sacks of ammonium nitrate and several detonators. One suspected person has been arrested in connection with the recovery.

The seizure has created concern in the area, with investigators probing the purpose for which such a large quantity of explosive material was allegedly stored at one location.

According to sources in the investigating agency, NIA officials received intelligence inputs about the alleged stockpiling of explosives in an area of Nalhati. Acting on the information, a special NIA team travelled from New Town and, with the assistance of local police, conducted a search operation at the identified location.

After an extensive search, the team recovered 20 sacks of ammonium nitrate and several detonators. A suspect was also detained from the spot. He was subsequently arrested after investigators reportedly found inconsistencies in his statements. His identity has not been disclosed so far.

Investigators are questioning the arrested person to determine who was behind the alleged storage of the explosives, where the material had been sourced from and what its intended use was. The NIA is also examining whether the material had been stored solely for commercial purposes or whether there was any larger criminal or subversive plan behind it.

The recovered ammonium nitrate and detonators may be sent for forensic examination. Ammonium nitrate is commonly used as a fertiliser and also has applications in explosives used in mining and construction. The recovery of a substantial quantity of the chemical along with detonators has prompted investigators to examine the matter closely.

Security has been strengthened in Nalhati and adjoining areas following the operation. The NIA has so far not disclosed detailed information about the case, citing the ongoing investigation.

The arrested person is being questioned continuously. According to sources, investigators have obtained several names during the interrogation and have begun efforts to trace them.

Investigators are also trying to trace the source of the recovered material and identify others who may be linked to the network. Officials believe further details could emerge as the investigation progresses.

The development comes against the backdrop of several earlier recoveries of large quantities of explosives and firearms from different parts of West Bengal, including East Midnapore and particularly South 24 Parganas. There have also been incidents in the past involving accidental explosions that resulted in loss of life. The NIA is now investigating the exact purpose for which the explosives recovered in Nalhati were allegedly stockpiled.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey