Bhubaneswar, Feb 17: In a significant development, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the investigation into a bomb explosion in the New Azadnagar area of Sundarpada under the Airfield police station limits, following the discovery of hazardous chemicals used in the bomb. The explosion, which occurred during bomb-making activities, has intensified the gravity of the incident, with authorities finding evidence of the use of dangerous chemicals such as RDX samples.
The blast occurred when Sahinabaj Mallik and Orf Mafi were reportedly making bombs inside a large house. Amiyarajan Mallik was assisting them in the process. Nearby, Mafi's mother, Lijathun Bibi, and his girlfriend, Tripti Mayee Mahal, were also present. Witnesses reported that the bomb exploded suddenly, causing chaos in the area.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused had been using hazardous chemicals like Hexahydro-Trinitro-Triazine (HMX) and Triacetonetriperoxide (TATP), both known for their high explosive potential. These chemicals are commonly used in the manufacture of powerful explosives. After these findings, the case was handed over to the NIA for further investigation.
The NIA team, which has now taken over the case, has visited the explosion site for a detailed inquiry and also investigated the hospital where the injured victims were being treated. Authorities are yet to receive a full report on the chemical compounds used in the bomb.
Mafi and his mother tragically lost their lives in the explosion, while two others, including Mafi's girlfriend, were injured. During the investigation, the authorities seized two mobile phones-one belonging to Mafi and the other to an injured victim. The injured individuals have not yet provided any statements, and the mobile phones were severely damaged in the blast.
The NIA is now focused on determining the origin of the chemicals used in the bomb, identifying any networks involved in the illicit supply of such substances, and uncovering the financial transactions related to the bomb-making activities. Investigations are also looking into Mafi’s recent involvement in a money-making operation, which could be linked to the ongoing probe.
