Varanasi Police Bust Illegal Fireworks Hub: 2,500kg Chemicals Seized
Varanasi Police launch a massive crackdown on illegal fireworks, seizing 2,500kg of chemicals and 30 quintals of crackers. Two arrested.
In a massive operation to curb the danger of illegal explosives, the Varanasi Police have carried out a series of raids, resulting in the Varanasi illegal fireworks seizure of over 2,500 kilograms of hazardous chemicals and 30 quintals of unauthorized firecrackers. The crackdown was intensified following a recent explosion at a residence in the Paigambarpur area of Sarnath, which put authorities on high alert.
Massive Chemical Cache Discovered in Kashi Zone
Acting on a precise tip-off, the Kotwali police targeted a house located in Gola Dinanath. Upon entering the premises, officers discovered a staggering amount of chemical substances stored across two rooms. The materials were packed in more than 50 sacks, totaling over 2,500 kilograms.
ACP Vijay Pratap Singh revealed that the seized chemicals included:
- Barium carbonate
- Charcoal powder
- Barium nitrate
- Aluminum
- Potassium
According to the police, these specific substances are primary ingredients used in the clandestine manufacture of firecrackers and the highly dangerous 'sutli' bombs. The owner of the godown, identified as Rajesh Kumar from Chetganj, has been taken into custody for questioning.
Crackdown in Varuna Zone: 30 Quintals of Crackers Confiscated
The operation extended to the Varuna zone, where the Cantt police, supported by SOG-2, raided a property in the Kunj Vihar Colony near Central Jail Road. During this search, authorities uncovered approximately 30 quintals of firecrackers.
Officials noted that the explosives were being stored illegally and without any of the mandatory safety measures required for such hazardous materials. The homeowner, Rahul Gupta, was arrested on the spot.
Police on High Alert Ahead of Diwali
With the festival of Diwali approaching, the Varanasi Police are maintaining a strict vigil to prevent accidents caused by the illegal storage and sale of fireworks. Authorities have identified several high-risk zones within the city, including:
- Pitarkunda and Dalmandi
- Beniyabag and Madanpura
- Pandeypur and Lahartara
Traders Shifting to Rural Outskirts
Intelligence suggests that as police pressure increases within the city limits, some unscrupulous traders are shifting their illegal operations to rural areas to evade detection. In response, the police have expanded their monitoring to include the Ring Road vicinity and areas such as Sindhora, Pindra, and Baragaon.
Investigations are currently ongoing to trace the source of the seized chemicals and determine the intended destination of the illegal fireworks.