Published Aug 09, 2026 | 1:10 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 09, 2026 | 1:10 PM
NIA
Synopsis: The NIA has arrested the alleged main conspirator in a massive illegal explosives case. The investigation follows the February 2026 seizure of 89,600 explosive sticks and 10,500 shock tubes from a lorry. Coordinated NIA raids span 19 locations across three states.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested another accused in connection with the seizure of a large quantity of explosives in Malappuram district, taking the total number of arrests in the case to 10.
The accused, identified as Haris TA, was arrested in Manjeri, Malappuram, on Saturday. According to NIA sources, Haris is allegedly one of the main conspirators in the case and was involved in the illegal procurement of the explosives seized by the investigating agency.
The case relates to the seizure of a huge consignment of explosives from a lorry parked at the premises of Farha Hollow Bricks Company on the Chemmad-Thalappara road in Malappuram on February 7, 2026.
The lorry, bearing registration number KL 10 BF 8395, was intercepted by the Kerala Police, which arrested three persons found in connection with the consignment. The accused did not possess valid licences or permissions to transport or possess the explosives.
The seized consignment included 89,600 explosive sticks and 10,500 shock tubes, commonly known as NONEL. The recovery had prompted an investigation into the source, procurement and intended use of the explosives.
The NIA subsequently re-registered the case and took over the investigation.
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During its probe, the agency conducted searches at 19 locations across three states –Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka– resulting in the collection of incriminating material and the identification of additional persons involved in the alleged conspiracy.
The arrest of Haris comes a day after the NIA arrested three more accused from Vijayapura in Karnataka on August 7.
Investigators have been examining the wider network involved in procuring and transporting the explosives, with Haris now being identified as an alleged key conspirator in the procurement process.
With his arrest, the number of accused arrested in connection with the case has reached 10.
(Edited by Fayisa C A)
