NIA launches probe into Nalhati arms cache, seizes gelatin sticks and ammonium nitrate
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over and initiated a detailed investigation into the seizure of a large cache of explosives from Nalhati in Birbhum district. It has been revealed that during routine patrolling in the Khapur Canal area of Banior Panchayat under Nalhati Police Station, officers intercepted a suspicious motorcycle (registration number WB-46C-3325). The bike had a sack loaded on the pillion seat, covered with a blanket.
The search led to the recovery of approximately 500 pieces of gelatin sticks, while another sack contained approximately 50 kg of ammonium nitrate.
The rider of the bike has been identified as Chandu Let, a resident of Radipur village under Rampurhat Police Station area. He was placed under arrest on the spot as he could not produce any valid documents or permits for the explosives. During initial questioning, he claimed the material was procured from the Rampurhat area and was being transported to the Nalhati stone quarry industrial area for alleged illegal mining purposes. Initial Case Details: Nalhati police station immediately registered FIR No 86/2026 dated 14.02.2026 under: Sections 303(2) and 316(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 Section 9(B)(2) of the Explosives Act. The NIA took over the probe following a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The NIA has now registered the case and assumed full investigation. The central agency suspects a larger terror conspiracy. The MHA order explicitly notes that the activities attract Sections 4 & 5 of the Explosive Substances Act, 1908, involving possession of explosives “under suspicious circumstances with an intent to endanger life or cause serious injury to property and create panic in the minds of the people.”
The NIA aims to unearth any organised network, external linkages, or smuggling corridors that may be using West Bengal as a route. This probe gains added significance as the state heads into Assembly Elections in two phases on April 23 and April 29, 2026. Security experts have long warned that ammonium nitrate and gelatin sticks — while used in mining and construction — are frequently diverted for illegal and terror activities.
Birbhum district has seen multiple such seizures in the past, but the timing and scale of this recovery have prompted the shift from local police to central agency investigation.
The NIA spokesperson has confirmed the agency has already begun an investigation into this case. Further arrests and recoveries are expected as the trail is followed. The probe agency has also issued an advisory for the citizens. They have been urged to report any suspicious movement of chemicals, vehicles, or unknown persons in border and industrial areas.
