ALMORA, UTTARAKHAND: Police in Uttarakhand’s Almora district have launched a high-level investigation after a massive cache of explosives was discovered near a school, triggering a major security scare. Authorities confirmed the recovery of 161 gelatin sticks, weighing over 20 kilograms, from bushes close to the Government High Secondary School in Dabara village, Sult area.
The discovery was brought to light when the school principal, Subhash Singh, noticed suspicious packets hidden in the bushes near the school premises on Thursday. He immediately alerted the police. Two police teams rapidly secured the area to ensure the safety of students and nearby villagers.
Bomb disposal squads and dog squads were promptly summoned from Udham Singh Nagar and Nainital districts. A thorough search by the canine unit located several packets of gelatin sticks concealed in the dense undergrowth, with more packets discovered approximately 20 feet away
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Devendra Pincha confirmed the recovery, stating that the bomb disposal unit safely collected and sealed the packets, moving them to a secure location. He added that surrounding areas were also meticulously searched to rule out any further hidden explosives.
While gelatin sticks are powerful explosive materials commonly used for rock blasting in construction and mining projects, their presence near a school has raised serious questions about intent and security lapses. Police are intensively investigating the source of the dangerous materials and the individuals responsible for placing them in the village.
A case has been registered against unknown persons under Section 4(a) of the Explosive Substances Act, 1908, and Section 288 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). Four dedicated police teams have been formed for further investigation.
The timely recovery comes amid heightened national security alerts following the recent Delhi blast and a major seizure of explosives in Haryana, with intelligence agencies having warned of potential terror plots targeting major cities. Authorities are now increasing efforts to ensure public spaces, including schools, remain safe from such threats. (TV9)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com
