Bengaluru Police Launch Swift Raid, Confiscate Explosives in Akshayanagar Construction Site
In a prompt response to an emergency complaint, the Hulimavu police force in Bengaluru conducted a decisive raid on an under-construction building located in Akshayanagar, situated in the southeastern part of the city. The operation led to the seizure of a substantial cache of explosive materials, including gelatin sticks and live detonators, highlighting serious safety concerns in residential areas.
Retired Bank Employee's Alert Triggers Police Action
The incident unfolded when ES Ramabhat, a retired bank employee and resident of 3rd Main in Akshayanagar, reported a disturbing loud explosion around noon on Tuesday. Ramabhat described how the blast caused nearby buildings to shake, alarming him and prompting immediate concern. Aware that construction activities were ongoing at adjacent sites, he quickly deduced that explosives were being used at the location. Without delay, Ramabhat contacted the police through helpline 112, citing the disturbance and potential risks to life and property, which set the investigation in motion.
Laborers Flee as Police Arrive at the Scene
When the Hoysala police unit rushed to the spot following the complaint, they encountered a scene of abandonment. Laborers working at the site, including an excavator operator and a tractor driver, fled the premises upon seeing the authorities. They left behind machinery, vehicles, and the explosive materials, which were subsequently secured by the police. Ramabhat informed the officers that construction work had been proceeding for the past three months, with explosives frequently employed to break underground boulders, raising questions about regulatory oversight.
Legal Case Filed and Explosives Detailed
In response to the findings, the police registered a formal case under the Explosive Substances Act, the Explosives Act, and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), specifically Sections 286 for negligent conduct with respect to poisonous substances and 324 for mischief. The accused parties include the site owner and the contractor responsible for the construction. The Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) conducted a thorough recovery operation, confiscating 4 bags of stone-crusher powder, each weighing 20kg, along with 20 gelatin sticks and 30 live detonator cables. Additionally, an excavator, a tractor, and a digging machine were seized as part of the evidence.
Landowner Claims Ignorance of Explosive Use
The land in question is reportedly owned by Ranjitha, a private firm employee currently residing in a rented house in Koramangala. She had entered into a contract with an individual named Pradeep to construct a residential building on the site. During police questioning, Ranjitha stated that she was unaware explosives were being used for the construction work. She claimed that the contractor had informed her he would utilize a compressor instead, suggesting a possible breach of agreement or miscommunication regarding safety protocols.
Ongoing Investigation to Trace Source of Explosives
A senior police officer involved in the case emphasized that efforts are underway to trace the contractor to ascertain the source of the explosives and determine whether they were procured legally. This aspect of the investigation is crucial for understanding the broader implications of explosive misuse in urban construction projects and ensuring accountability. The incident underscores the importance of vigilant community reporting and stringent enforcement of explosive regulations to prevent potential hazards in densely populated areas like Bengaluru.
