The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has officially taken over the probe into the Azadnagar bomb blast in Sundarpada, Bhubaneswar.
A case has been registered under 1/26 following clearance from New Delhi, and a special Odisha unit of the NIA has been formed to lead the investigation. Senior officials, including an SP-rank officer from outside the state, will assist the team.
Investigators are examining whether highly potent explosives such as RDX were used in assembling the device. The probe will explore both criminal and terror-related angles.
The main accused, Sehenwaz Mallik, who allegedly made the explosive device, died in the incident. His mother also succumbed while undergoing treatment.
The NIA stepped in after suspicions grew regarding the nature of the blast, prompting a deeper multi-angle investigation. Officials said further details will emerge as the inquiry progresses.
