Pune News : Illegal Fireworks Factory Raided, 100-kg Explosive Material Seized by Chikhali Police
In a significant operation, the Chikhali police successfully raided an illegal fireworks factory, confiscating 100 kilograms of highly inflammable and hazardous explosive chemicals worth Rs 1.50 lakh.
The authorities apprehended two individuals, Vikrant Raj Deshmukh (36) and Santosh Tayappa Shivsharan (44), during the operation. Both suspects have been charged under sections 285 and 336 of the Indian Penal Code, as well as the Indian Explosives Act. They have been remanded in police custody for four days.
The discovery of the illicit fireworks factory came to light during security preparations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit. While conducting patrols on Saturday, the Chikhali police noticed a suspicious establishment located at Sonwane Vasti in Chikhali.
Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the factory was operating unlawfully, producing explosive chemicals without the necessary permits. Despite being registered as a fireworks manufacturing unit, its illegal status posed a grave threat to public safety.
The police expressed concerns that the seized explosive chemicals might have been intended for criminal activities by anti-social elements. Given the factory’s illegal status, the owners would be unable to report any potential theft or misuse of the chemicals to the authorities.
The Chikhali Police, under the leadership of senior police inspector Katkar, assistant police inspector Nakul Nyamane, and police constables Chandrashekhar Chorghe, Nangare, Hole, and Taralkar, conducted the raid and seized various hazardous substances from the illegal factory. The confiscated items included two boxes of red phosphorus valued at Rs 5,000 each, one box of aluminium powder valued at Rs 25,000, one damaged gunny bag, one sulphur bag valued at Rs 500, six plastic containers of potassium nitrate worth Rs 50,000 each, two gunny bags, four boxes of gunpowder valued at Rs 10,000 each, and a fire extinguisher device valued at Rs 10,000.
Investigations revealed that the suspects had intended to use these explosive chemicals to create dangerous explosions, endangering the lives of innocent people. Their involvement in the illegal production of fireworks without proper authorization raised serious concerns about public safety.
Police constable Chandrasekhar Chorge filed a formal complaint against the suspects at the Chikhali police station, marking a crucial step in bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring the safety of the community.
