A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team visited Sundarpada in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday afternoon following a powerful explosion that rocked Azad Nagar.
The team inspected the site and questioned locals to understand the circumstances behind the blast.
The explosion occurred around 2.30 pm at a five-storey building, triggering panic among residents who rushed out of their homes. Fire services personnel quickly reached the spot and doused the flames, while a scientific team carried out a detailed inspection. Authorities recovered a large quantity of explosive materials, including gunpowder and detonators, from the building.
Two men, Sehenwaz Mallik and his associate Amiya Mallik, sustained critical injuries. Sehenwaz’s mother and his female friend also suffered injuries. All four were initially taken to Capital Hospital before being shifted to a private hospital for advanced treatment.
Police revealed that Sehenwaz, a wanted criminal, had rented the building and allegedly used the top floor to prepare bombs. Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena stated that those involved in preparing the explosives were responsible for the blast. He confirmed that legal action would follow once they recover, noting their criminal antecedents.
The Airfield police station registered a case, and the Commissionerate Police continues to lead the investigation. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being examined to trace movements linked to the incident.
Although the NIA team visited the site, the agency has not yet launched a formal probe. The case remains under the jurisdiction of local police, who are working to uncover the full network behind the explosion.
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