BENGALURU: The investigation into the suspicious parcel explosion at an under-construction building in Bengaluru’s Pulakeshinagar has intensified, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) seeking details of the case amid suspicions that an improvised explosive device (IED) may have been used. Investigators are examining whether three batteries triggered the explosion, though the exact nature of the device and the materials used are yet to be established.
The NIA has noted the incident and sought investigation reports from the local police. The agency is expected to review the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) findings, along with evidence collected by the Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO), before deciding on its next steps. Its possible involvement in the investigation will depend on the assessment of the available evidence and the findings of the ongoing probe.
The explosion occurred at around 2.30 pm on October 20 at a five-storey building under construction in Pulakeshinagar two workers, identified as Allauddin and Naresh, sustained injuries in the incident. The circumstances surrounding the explosion have raised questions about the contents of a parcel reportedly brought into the building shortly before the blast.
Police are investigating whether the explosion was caused by a battery-powered device. However, the suspicion that an IED was used remains preliminary, and forensic analysis is expected to establish the exact mechanism that triggered the blast.
Officials are examining the samples collected from the scene to determine whether the explosion involved an improvised device or another type of explosive mechanism. The FSL report is expected to be crucial in identifying the materials used and reconstructing the sequence of events.
Investigators are examining the involvement of three batteries as one possibility. However, authorities have not yet conclusively established how the batteries may have been connected to the explosion or whether other components were involved.
The NIA has reportedly sought details about the incident, including information relating to an anonymous telephone call mentioned during the preliminary investigation. Investigators are examining whether the call was linked to the parcel delivery and whether the caller had any role in the incident.
According to the preliminary account given to the police, a building security guard received an anonymous call instructing him to place a parcel on the premises. The guard reportedly told investigators he followed the instructions in the call.
The security guard and a painter allegedly tried to open the parcel when it exploded. Both are being examined as investigators try to establish how the package reached the building, who sent it and why the guard was instructed to place it inside.
The caller’s identity, the parcel’s origin, and the circumstances of its delivery have emerged as key aspects of the investigation. Police are also examining whether anyone other than those present at the building was involved when the explosion took place.
The anonymous call has added another dimension to the investigation, as officers seek to determine whether the parcel was deliberately delivered to the site and whether the explosion was intentional. Investigators are expected to examine available evidence and relevant records to establish the sequence of events.
Following the incident, personnel from the local police, the Anti-Terrorism Cell (ATC), SOCO, the FSL and the bomb disposal unit inspected the building and collected samples. Special teams were formed to investigate the circumstances of the explosion, and the Pulakeshinagar police registered a case.
Forensic teams are expected to examine the explosive residue, the condition of the parcel, and other materials recovered from the scene. Their findings could help investigators determine whether the blast resulted from an improvised explosive device, a battery-related mechanism or another cause.
The possibility of the NIA taking a more direct role has drawn attention to the case, given the suspicion surrounding the parcel and the potential use of an explosive device. However, no conclusion has been reached on the nature of the explosion, and the agency’s next steps will depend on its assessment of the evidence and the state investigators’ reports.
For now, the local police and the ATC are continuing their investigation, focusing on the anonymous caller, the parcel’s source and the materials that triggered the explosion. The FSL report is expected to provide important clues, while the NIA’s review could determine whether further investigation by the central agency is warranted.
Authorities have not yet established the motive behind the incident or confirmed whether it was linked to a larger conspiracy. Investigators are treating the case seriously and awaiting scientific findings to determine the blast’s precise cause.
