Two Individuals Detained Following Gelatine Stick Seizure in Andhra Pradesh
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Synopsis
On April 20, Andhra Pradesh Police arrested two individuals, including a YSR Congress Party leader, linked to the confiscation of gelatine sticks in Bapatla district. The explosives, valued at Rs 20 lakh, were part of an extensive smuggling network.
Key Takeaways
- Two arrests made in Bapatla district.
- Explosives valued at Rs 20 lakh seized.
- Connection to a licensed supplier uncovered.
- Investigation ordered by Home Minister Anitha.
- Potential links to previous explosions.
Amaravati, April 20 (NationPress) Andhra Pradesh Police have apprehended two individuals in relation to the seizure of gelatine sticks in the Bapatla district.
Among those detained is Hanumantha Rao, a local leader from the YSR Congress Party.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Ramanjaneyulu revealed the arrests on Sunday, along with the confiscation of a transport vehicle.
The DSP noted that the seized explosives are valued at Rs 20 lakh and mentioned the discovery of an extensive smuggling operation tied to a licensed supplier.
Previously, state Home Minister Vanagalpudi Anitha had mandated an investigation into the confiscation of 7.5 tonnes of explosives.
She instructed the police to carry out a comprehensive inquiry into the illicit trade of gelatine sticks, with allegations suggesting that these materials were being unlawfully exchanged under the guise of a granite business.
On Sunday, Home Minister Vanagalpudi Anitha communicated with the Director General of Police and the District Superintendent of Police.
She urged the police to determine whether the recovered explosives were connected to the blast that transpired in Vinukonda in 2023, which resulted in a fatality during the Panchayat Raj elections in Ballikurava.
Following the recovery of explosive materials on Saturday, police heightened their alertness. Numerous gelatine sticks were seized, along with approximately 2,300 detonators that were reportedly stored in a granite factory in Ballikurava mandal.
Authorities uncovered the explosives within a warehouse located on the Martur highway in the Bapatla district on Saturday, which is believed to be owned by the YSR Congress Party leader.
Acting on credible intelligence, the SP ordered a raid on the warehouse, where a significant quantity of gelatine sticks was discovered.
According to police sources, there were no permits for the storage of these explosives, leading to the registration of a case and the initiation of an investigation.
The police are currently investigating the origin of the gelatine sticks and are working to identify individuals involved in the unlawful acquisition of these explosives.
