Bhubaneswar: Teams of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday conducted raids at three locations in and around Bhubaneswar in connection with the bomb explosion in Sundarpada area of the city in January 2026.
The targeted locations were identified through detailed analysis of various evidence collected earlier from one accused arrested in the case and based on other findings resulting from the investigation so far.
Notably, the NIA had earlier arrested a 26-year-old man belonging to the Patia area in Bhubaneswar, from his hideout in Uttar Pradesh a couple of days ago.
The searches conducted on Tuesday were aimed at ascertaining the source of the explosive materials and other components used in the preparation of bombs and to unravel their intended use. The NIA is also examining the source of funds used for procuring these materials, the agency said.
The searches led to the seizure of several digital devices and other incriminating materials, which are being sent for forensic examination.
The case relates to a blast that took place when a bomb exploded accidentally while it was being improvised by four persons on the rooftop of a four-storeyed building in Azad Nagar Colony in Sundarpada on January 27. All four bomb makers were severely injured in the blast.
The case was initially registered by Airfield Police Station, Bhubaneswar Urban Police District, and was later taken over by the NIA in April 2026. The agency is continuing with its investigation to trace others involved in the crime.
The explosion occurred while accused Sehnawaz Malik, his mother Lizatun Bibi, his alleged fiancée Truptimayee Mahal, and friend Amiya Mallick were present. Malik succumbed to his burn injuries on February 4, while his mother died of her injuries on February 10. Mahal and Mallick survived the incident but sustained severe burn injuries.
