A potential disaster was averted in Rajasthan on New Year’s Eve after police stopped a car carrying a massive cache of explosive material. The recovery took place in Tonk district, where alert officers intercepted a suspicious vehicle and uncovered dangerous substances just hours before year-end celebrations.
The operation triggered a major security alert in the region. Police arrested two men and launched a detailed investigation to determine the purpose and destination of the explosives.
Police Intercept Car After Tip-Off in Tonk
The District Special Team (DST) of Tonk Police acted on specific intelligence inputs late Wednesday. Officers set up a checkpoint in the Baroni police station area and stopped a moving car for inspection.
During the search, police found around 150 kg of ammonium nitrate concealed inside sacks of urea fertiliser. The packaging appeared designed to avoid suspicion during transport.
“Explosive Material Was Being Transported From Bundi to Tonk”
Deputy Superintendent of Police Mrityunjay Mishra said the team moved quickly after receiving credible information. He said the accused were allegedly transporting the explosive material from Bundi district to Tonk for supply.
Police seized the vehicle used to carry the consignment and immediately detained the occupants for questioning.
Two Accused Arrested, Identities Revealed
Police identified the arrested men as Surendra Patwa and Surendra Mochi, both residents of Rajasthan’s Bundi district.
Officials said the suspects failed to provide valid documents explaining the movement of such a large quantity of explosive material. Their statements raised further suspicion, prompting a deeper probe.
“200 Cartridges and 1,100 Metres of Fuse Wire Also Seized.”
The seizure went beyond ammonium nitrate. Police also recovered 200 explosive cartridges and six bundles of safety fuse wire, measuring nearly 1,100 metres in total.
Officers said the recovered items could be used to assemble explosive devices, making the recovery extremely serious from a security standpoint.
Why Ammonium Nitrate Raises Alarm
Ammonium nitrate is commonly used as a fertilizer. However, it can become highly dangerous when misused or combined with other materials.
Security agencies remain on high alert following recent incidents involving explosives in different parts of the country. The movement of such material without clearance raises concerns about possible illegal or violent use.
Police Probe Possible Illegal Use or Mining Link
Investigators are now trying to trace the source of the explosives, their intended destination, and their possible use.
Police are also examining whether the consignment was meant for illegal activities, including unauthorised mining, or if it was linked to any larger network.
Heightened Security Ahead of New Year’s Celebrations
The seizure comes at a time when security agencies across Rajasthan were already on alert due to New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Officials said the timely action by the DST may have prevented a serious incident. Police increased surveillance across key routes following the recovery.
Authorities continue to question the accused and analyse call records and transport links. Police may make further arrests if they uncover connections to other individuals or groups.
Officials said they will take strict action against anyone found involved in the illegal handling or movement of explosive materials.