Massive Explosives Cache Uncovered in Kerala Onion Truck
In a startling discovery that has raised significant security concerns, police in Malappuram, Kerala, seized a massive haul of over 10,500 gelatin sticks and detonators from a lorry transporting onions. The incident occurred at Chemmad on Saturday, following a tip-off that led authorities to a brick-making unit where the vehicle was parked.
Details of the Seizure and Investigation
Acting swiftly on intelligence, police arrived at the location late Friday night, causing those unloading the consignment to flee the scene. Upon inspecting the lorry on Saturday morning, officers found approximately 245 boxes containing gelatin sticks, detonators, and wires cleverly hidden among sacks of onions. The counting process has been completed, and a formal case is set to be registered shortly.
A woman has been taken into custody in connection with the case, and she is reported to operate a quarry, fueling suspicions that the explosives were intended for illegal mining operations. Preliminary investigations indicate that the gelatin sticks and detonators were smuggled into Kerala from outside the state, with police actively working to trace their origin and supply chain.
Context and Previous Incidents
This seizure follows a similar incident on February 4, when police in Palakkad confiscated 18,000 gelatin sticks and 4,200 detonators concealed among watermelons in a pickup van at Kadamkode. The recurrence of such cases highlights ongoing challenges in curbing the illicit trade of explosives in the region, often linked to unauthorized mining activities that pose serious safety and environmental risks.
Authorities are intensifying efforts to dismantle networks involved in the illegal transport and use of explosives, emphasizing the need for stricter surveillance and coordination between state agencies. The public is urged to report any suspicious activities to help prevent potential hazards and ensure community safety.
