Massive Explosives Cache Uncovered in Onion Shipment in Kerala
In a significant security operation, Kerala police have seized a massive haul of explosives, including more than 10,500 gelatin sticks and detonators, from a lorry transporting onions at Chemmad. The dramatic discovery was made on Saturday, 7 February, following a tip-off about suspicious activity.
Detailed Police Operation and Seizure
According to police reports, the onion-laden lorry had arrived at a bricks manufacturing unit in Chemmad late on Friday night. Acting on specific intelligence, officers from the Tirurangadi police station swiftly moved to the location. However, the individuals who were unloading the goods managed to escape before the police could apprehend them.
On Saturday morning, a thorough search of the vehicle revealed 245 boxes hidden among the bags of onions. These boxes contained a dangerous assortment of detonators, gelatin sticks, and wires. The police have completed the quantification process and are preparing to register a formal case regarding the illicit consignment.
Arrest and Suspected Illegal Mining Connection
Authorities have arrested the woman who owns the lorry involved in this incident. Investigations indicate that she also operates a quarry, leading police to believe the explosives were intended for illegal mining operations. An officer involved in the case stated that the gelatin sticks and detonators were purchased from outside Kerala, and a comprehensive investigation has been launched to trace their origin and supply chain.
Recent Similar Incident in Palakkad
This seizure follows another alarming discovery in Kerala just days earlier. On 5 February, police near Palakkad town intercepted a pick-up van carrying over 100 boxes of gelatin sticks and more than 20 boxes of detonators. The explosives were concealed beneath a shipment of watermelons.
The driver of that vehicle was taken into custody and, during initial questioning, revealed that he had loaded the boxes in Coimbatore and was en route to a quarry in Thrissur. Police acted on information about large quantities of explosives being illegally imported into the state, conducting a vehicle inspection that led to the seizure.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigations
These back-to-back incidents highlight serious concerns about the illegal trafficking of explosives in Kerala, potentially linked to unauthorized mining activities. The use of agricultural produce like onions and watermelons as cover for smuggling dangerous materials underscores the sophisticated methods employed by those involved.
Law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts to dismantle these networks, with ongoing investigations aimed at identifying all individuals connected to these seizures. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities promptly.
