MALAPPURAM: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Haris T.A., the alleged mastermind behind the seizure of a massive stockpile of illegal explosives in Malappuram. He was arrested from Manjeri, Malappuram. According to the NIA’s findings, Haris played a central role in illegally procuring and distributing the explosives. The investigative team has not yet released further details regarding the operation.
This crucial arrest follows widespread raids conducted by the NIA across the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. During searches at around 19 locations across the three states, authorities seized vital digital devices and numerous documents. Additionally, the 9th accused, Mandagoud Biradar, the 10th accused, Bappagoud Bhiramaya Choudhry, and the 11th accused, Prakash Gouda Biradar, were arrested on Friday from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.
The NIA took over the investigation due to the severe implications of the case on national security. The massive consignment of explosives was being transported without any valid licenses. The raids resulted in the seizure of 89,600 gelatin sticks stored in 448 boxes and 10,500 non-electric detonators contained in 35 boxes. The investigative team is currently probing whether more individuals were involved in the case.
