NIA begins terror probe after 79 crude bombs found in West Bengal

The anti-terror agency registered a fresh First Information Report (RC-25/2026/NIA/DLI) early on Monday, following an order from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued the previous day.

“In pursuit of the MHA order, the NIA has taken over and registered a case related to the recovery of crude bombs in West Bengal. The case pertains to the recovery of 79 crude bombs and other incriminating materials by Kolkata police, which were being stored at a spot on April 25, thereby endangering human life and property. The NIA registered the case on April 26,” the NIA stated.

The initial case (FIR No. 62/2026) dated April 25 was filed at Uttar Kashipur Police Station in the Bhangar division of Kolkata. It was registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Explosive Substances Act, 1908, following credible information regarding the storage of crude bombs and related materials.

Acting on the intelligence, the state police recovered 79 round-shaped objects suspected to be crude bombs, tied with jute ropes, along with other incriminating materials. These explosives were reportedly stored inside an abandoned house near a burial ground in Majherhat (Poilepara) village under the jurisdiction of Uttar Kashipur police station, South 24 Parganas district.

The MHA assessed the case involved a “scheduled offense” under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008. Officials noted that the illegal storage and handling of explosives posed a serious threat to public safety and property and potentially aimed to spread fear and terror among citizens.

Considering the severity of the offence, possible national security implications, and the need to uncover any wider conspiracy, the MHA directed the NIA on the night of April 25 to take over the investigation.

In its directive, issued under Section 6(5) read with Section 8 of the NIA Act, 2008, the MHA authorized the NIA to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the matter.