150 kg Explosives Seized in Tonk on New Year’s Eve; 2 Arrested
150 kg Explosives Seized in Tonk on New Year’s Eve; 2 Arrested
150 kg ammonium nitrate, 200 cartridges and 1,100 metres of fuse wire were seized from a car in Tonk on New Year’s Eve; two men arrested as investigators probe the intent.
In Tonk district, a car on New Year’s Eve was stopped and a massive haul of explosives recovered: 150 kg of ammonium nitrate, 200 cartridges, and six bundles of safety fuse wire, hidden inside urea sacks. The sedan was intercepted near Chironj village on National Highway-52, and the two occupants were arrested. The accused have been identified as Surendra Patwa, 48, and Surendra Mochi, 33, residents of Bundi district. The seizure suggests potential links to illegal activities rather than agricultural use.
Investigators are trying to determine the purpose of the consignment, including whether it was intended for blasting at illegal mining sites in the Aravalli hills. Ammonium nitrate is a highly sensitive chemical commonly used in industrial explosives, heightening concern that a terror conspiracy or a major incident could have unfolded during New Year celebrations.
The District Special Team says the suspects became nervous and attempted to flee when questioned. The car was followed, stopped, and searched, revealing the explosive material along with the other items. Authorities are exploring the source, destination and possible links of the seizure as the investigation progresses.
