In a significant security operation, Rajasthan Police on Wednesday intercepted a vehicle and seized a massive haul of 150 kilograms of ammonium nitrate, a tightly regulated explosive substance, which was being transported illegally on a national highway in Tonk district. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.
Highway Blockade Leads to Major Bust
The interception occurred around 9 am near Chirauj village on National Highway 52, which connects Jaipur with Kota. Police had set up a blockade when they noticed a suspicious vehicle passing through carrying sacks labelled as urea fertiliser. The occupants, appearing nervous, were immediately chased and stopped by the alert officers.
Massive Haul of Explosive Material Uncovered
Upon searching the car, police discovered that the urea sacks actually concealed the ammonium nitrate. The seizure did not stop there. Officers also confiscated 200 explosive cartridges and approximately 1,100 metres of safety fuse wire, bundled into six packs. The total haul pointed towards a potentially large-scale illicit operation.
Tonk Superintendent of Police Rajesh Meena confirmed the details of the seizure. The two accused have been identified as Surendra Kumar and Surendra Mochi. Preliminary investigations reveal that the men were transporting the highly controlled materials without the mandatory government licences or permits required for such activity.
Investigation Focuses on Source and Destination
While initial suspicion suggests the ammonium nitrate was intended for use in mining, the arrested individuals failed to produce any authorisation to support this claim. Police are now intensively probing where the explosives were sourced from and who the intended recipients were. Early inquiries indicate the duo were likely acting as couriers in a larger network.
An FIR is being registered against the accused. The case has raised serious concerns as ammonium nitrate is a key component in manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and has been misused in terrorist activities in the past. Its sale, storage, and transport within India are subject to strict government oversight and permissions.
The successful interception by the Rajasthan Police on a busy national highway underscores the ongoing vigilance against the illegal movement of materials that can threaten public safety.
