NIA arrests main conspirator in Kerala illegal explosives seizure case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a key conspirator in the illegal explosives seizure case in Kerala's Malappuram district, bringing the total number of arrests related to the case to ten, officials announced on Sunday. The accused, Haris TA, was detained on Saturday in Manjeri, Malappuram. Authorities allege Haris played a pivotal role in the acquisition of the seized explosives.

The case stems from the discovery of 89,600 explosive sticks and 10,500 shock tubes (NONEL) concealed within a lorry parked at the Farha Hollow Bricks Company compound on Chemmad-Thalappara Road in Malappuram on February 7, 2026. Kerala Police intercepted the vehicle, leading to the arrest of three individuals connected to the contraband. However, the NIA stated that the suspect lacked proper licensing or authorization to possess or transport the explosives.

Following the initial arrest, the NIA re-registered the case and assumed control of the investigation in April 2026. Over the course of the probe, investigators conducted searches at nineteen locations in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, ultimately recovering digital devices, documents, and gelatin sticks. The probe unveiled additional conspirators and shed light on the supply chain facilitating the procurement and transportation of the explosives.

Haris' arrest occurred a day after the NIA apprehended three more accused in Vijayapura, Karnataka, on August 7. The agency revealed that the ongoing investigation aims to unravel the broader conspiracy, encompassing the illegal procurement, transit, and ultimate intended use of the explosives. The NIA indicated that the investigation is still in progress, with the objective of exposing the full extent of the illicit operation.