The Delhi Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) and launched an intense investigation into the low-intensity explosion that occurred near a cinema hall in Rohini on Thursday, leaving one person injured. The explosion, which occurred almost 40 days after a similar incident near a CRPF school in the same locality, has raised concerns of chemical waste dumping in the area.
According to official sources, police suspect that discarded chemical waste may have contributed to the explosion, and investigations are underway to confirm this theory. The blast has prompted the Delhi Police to question factory owners and former firecracker manufacturers in the area, as authorities believe some individuals might secretly be involved in the illegal manufacturing of firecrackers, despite a nationwide ban on such activities.
“The investigation is looking into possible links between the explosion and illegal firecracker manufacturing operations,” said a police source. “We are focusing on individuals who may have discarded chemical waste or explosives in the area.”
The explosion occurred near a sweet shop, about 500 meters away from the site of the October 20 blast at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) school. Police suspect that the two incidents might be connected, as a similar white powder was found at both blast sites. The chemical composition of the white powder, including hydrogen peroxide, borates, and nitrates, is being analyzed for further clues.
While the police have not ruled out the possibility of a terror angle, they are also considering the chance of an accidental explosion. One lead involves the suspicion that an unextinguished “beedi” (cigarette) butt thrown by a nearby three-wheeler driver, Chetan Kushwaha, may have triggered the explosion. Kushwaha sustained minor injuries in the blast.
A team of investigators from the Delhi Police’s Crime Branch, Special Cell, and local police have been working tirelessly to gather evidence, including reviewing footage from CCTV cameras in the area. Local residents, security guards, and sweepers have also been questioned to uncover any potential leads. In addition, officials from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have visited the scene and met with local police to discuss the case.
The blast occurred in a bustling area, raising concerns over public safety and the potential threat of further explosions. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities increasing security in the vicinity and maintaining a round-the-clock police presence.
The Delhi Police have registered the case under Section 326 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for causing grievous hurt, Section 4 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, and Section 3 of the Explosive Substances Act. Investigators are continuing their efforts to identify the perpetrators and make arrests.
The residents of Rohini remain on edge, hoping for swift justice and greater safety measures in the wake of these blasts.
Sources By Agencies