The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday (30 May 2026) conducted searches at multiple locations across Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod districts as part of its ongoing investigation into the seizure of a massive cache of explosives from Chemmad near Tirurangadi in Malappuram district earlier this year, as reported in OnManorama.
The raids began in the early hours of the morning at residences, business establishments and firms linked to the accused, as well as individuals suspected of having connections to the case. Searches were carried out in Tirurangadi and Vandoor in Malappuram district, Eranjimavu in Kozhikode district, and several locations in Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
According to NIA officials, the searches are part of efforts to uncover the wider network involved in the illegal transportation and intended use of the explosives. Investigators are examining firms owned by the accused and establishments linked to other suspects as part of the probe.
The case relates to the seizure of a huge quantity of explosives from a lorry disguised as an onion transport vehicle at Chemmad in February. Police recovered more than 10,500 gelatin sticks along with detonators and connecting wires concealed among sacks of onions in the vehicle.
Investigators found that around 245 boxes containing gelatin sticks, detonators and wires had been hidden inside the lorry, which had arrived at a brick-manufacturing unit on the night of February 6. Acting on a tip-off, police reached the location, prompting those unloading the consignment to flee the scene.
The following day, officials unloaded the cargo and discovered the explosives concealed among the onion sacks. Preliminary investigations revealed that the explosives had been transported into Kerala from another state. During the probe, police also took into custody a woman who owned the lorry and found that she was associated with a quarry unit.
Given the scale of the seizure and the questions surrounding the source, transportation and intended destination of the explosives, the NIA subsequently took over the investigation from the state police.
Officials said the agency is now focused on identifying the full network behind the operation, tracing the movement of the explosives and determining their intended use.
Subscribe to our channels on WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and YouTube to get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
