Did the NIA Start an Investigation into the Theft of Explosives by Suspected Maoists in Odisha?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The recent theft of four tonnes of explosives in Odisha has caught the attention of the NIA, who have commenced an investigation. The possibility of Maoist involvement from Jharkhand raises serious security concerns in the region. What measures will be taken to enhance protection against such incidents?
Key Takeaways
- NIA has launched an investigation into the theft.
- Approximately four tonnes of explosives were stolen.
- The incident involved Maoists from Jharkhand.
- Security measures are being strengthened in the region.
- Previous similar incidents highlight ongoing threats.
Bhubaneswar, May 29 (NationPress) - A delegation from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) initiated an inquiry on Thursday concerning the theft of approximately four tonnes of explosives, allegedly pilfered by Maoists close to the Odisha-Jharkhand border in Sundargarh district on Tuesday, according to a high-ranking police official.
The official mentioned that the NIA team is currently assessing the case to decide if they will take over the investigation.
He further stated that the involvement of Maoists from the adjacent Jharkhand region in this theft cannot be dismissed.
“The driver reported that the assailants identified themselves as Maoists in the Odia language during the heist. An FIR has been filed, and the investigation is proceeding in that direction,” remarked Brijesh Rai, the Deputy Inspector General of Odisha Police (Western Range).
Rai also informed the media that after the incident was reported, DGP Y.B. Khurania, along with other senior police officials, visited the K Balanga police station on Wednesday to review the situation.
The DGP directed officials to enhance security at all vulnerable locations in the region.
Moreover, Khurania ordered strict compliance with the current Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) related to security protocols for agencies involved in the explosives trade and mandated a security audit of all such facilities.
It’s significant to note that a vehicle transporting around 200 packets, each containing 25 kg of explosives from a private warehouse in the Badagaon area, was intercepted at a mining site in Banko under the jurisdiction of K Balanga police station on Tuesday. Approximately 30 to 40 unidentified gunmen appeared and instructed the mining site staff and the driver to reload the explosives back into the vehicle.
They subsequently absconded with the packets of explosives, abandoning the vehicle and driver in a forested area a few kilometers away.
Reports indicate that Maoists had previously hijacked an explosive-laden vehicle from the Champajharan area of Rourkela in Sundargarh district a few years ago.
Point of View
It is our duty to provide an unbiased perspective on this unfolding situation. The theft of explosives not only poses a threat to safety but also highlights the ongoing challenges posed by Maoist elements in the region. The NIA's intervention illustrates the seriousness of the matter, and we must advocate for enhanced security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was stolen in the Odisha heist?
Approximately four tonnes of explosives were stolen by suspected Maoists near the Odisha-Jharkhand border.
Which agency is investigating the incident?
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has begun investigating the theft.
Where did the theft occur?
The theft took place in Sundargarh district, close to the Odisha-Jharkhand border.
Who was involved in the theft?
The theft is believed to have been carried out by Maoists, with reports indicating their involvement from the neighboring Jharkhand region.
What measures are being taken to improve security?
The DGP has instructed local police to enhance security at vulnerable locations and to adhere strictly to existing security protocols.
