Major security lapse averted in Rajasthan before New Year: 150 kg ammonium nitrate recovered from car

On New Year’s Eve, Rajasthan Police has seized a huge quantity of explosive material, averting a major potential security challenge. In Tonk district, police stopped and searched a Maruti Ciaz car, in which 150 kg of ammonium nitrate, about 200 explosive cartridges and about 1100 meters long safety fuse wire were recovered. Two people have been arrested in this case and they are being interrogated thoroughly.

According to police officials, this action was taken in Barauni police station area on Tonk-Jaipur National Highway No. 52. Security agencies had received information that some people were illegally transporting explosive material from Bundi to Tonk. Based on this input, the road was blocked and the suspicious car was stopped.

During the search, the police found fertilizer sacks, inside which ammonium nitrate was hidden. Police said that 150 kg of ammonium nitrate was found hidden in bags of urea fertilizer. Apart from this, about 200 dangerous explosive cartridges and 6 bundles of safety fuse wires, totaling about 1100 meters, were also recovered from the spot.

The arrested accused have been identified as Surendra Patwa and Surendra Mochi. Both the accused are said to be residents of Karwar village in Bundi district. Police officials say that both are being interrogated to find out where such a large quantity of explosive material was being taken and what was its purpose.

Officials have clarified that the matter is being investigated from all angles, including whether the explosive material was being brought for any terrorist activity or serious criminal conspiracy. The police have refused to reach any conclusion at present and have said that the situation will become clear only after investigation.

Ammonium nitrate is a sensitive chemical, used in industrial operations such as agriculture and mining, but it can also be misused to prepare explosives. This chemical is believed to be a major component of ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO), which has been used in illegal explosions around the world.

It is noteworthy that indications of the use of ammonium nitrate were also found in a high-intensity explosion near the historic Red Fort of Delhi on November 10, in which 15 people lost their lives. In the investigation of that case, remains of ammonium nitrate were found at the blast site.

Taking this latest recovery seriously, Rajasthan Police has alerted the security agencies. Officials say that this action has helped in averting the possible danger and strict vigil will continue in future to maintain law and order in the state.

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