NEW DELHI: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two key accused in connection with the 2022 bomb blast case in West Bengal’s Amta area of Howrah district following searches conducted at three locations. The arrests mark a significant development in an investigation that has gradually uncovered a wider network involved in the illegal manufacturing of crude bombs.
According to the agency, the arrested individuals have been identified as Asfar Middya and Entajul Middya, both residents of the Amta region in Howrah (Rural). Authorities allege that the duo played a leading role in operating and supervising an illegal bomb manufacturing unit in the area.
The arrests were made on Tuesday night after NIA teams carried out coordinated searches at suspected hideouts linked to the accused. Investigators believe the operation was part of a larger organised network involved in producing explosive devices intended to create fear and intimidation in the locality.
Key Developments In The Case
Illegal bomb-making operation uncovered
Investigators have alleged that crude bombs were being manufactured illegally near Chandrapur Bazar under the Amta police station jurisdiction on February 23, 2022. During the process, several explosives accidentally detonated, causing severe injuries to multiple individuals present at the site.
The explosion exposed the clandestine operation and brought attention to the growing concern over the circulation and use of crude bombs in certain parts of West Bengal.
Casualties and injuries
The blast left four individuals critically injured. They were identified as Jahadhar Mollah, Mohabbat Mollah, Moinur Rahaman and Sk Maharam.
Among them, Sk Maharam later succumbed to his injuries, making the incident fatal. The others sustained serious injuries and required medical treatment following the explosion. The incident triggered a local police investigation before the matter was later handed over to the NIA.
NIA’s Findings
According to the investigation, Asfar Middya and Entajul Middya allegedly controlled and directed the bomb manufacturing activities. Authorities suspect that the explosives were not intended for personal use but were meant to threaten, terrorise and establish dominance in the surrounding areas.
Officials have stated that evidence gathered during the investigation pointed towards a structured operation rather than an isolated incident. The agency is also examining whether additional individuals were involved in financing, storing or distributing explosive materials.
The Amta Bomb Blast Case
February 23, 2022: Explosion Occurs
An explosion took place near Chandrapur Bazar in Amta while crude bombs were reportedly being manufactured illegally. The blast exposed a hidden operation involving explosive materials.
2022-2024: Initial Local Police Investigation
Following the explosion, local police began investigating the incident, collecting evidence and identifying individuals linked to the illegal manufacturing unit.
April 2024: NIA Takes Over
Considering the seriousness of the case and potential links to organised criminal activities, the National Investigation Agency assumed control of the investigation from local authorities. The agency subsequently registered the case and expanded the scope of its probe to identify the entire network behind the operation.
Earlier Arrests And Chargesheet
Before the latest arrests, four other individuals had already been arrested and chargesheeted in the case. Investigators continued gathering evidence to establish the hierarchy and responsibilities of every accused person involved.
June 2026: Two Prime Accused Arrested
The latest operation led to the arrest of the two alleged masterminds after searches at three locations in Amta. The investigation remains ongoing.
Crude bomb-related incidents have remained a recurring law and order concern in parts of West Bengal over the years. Such explosives are often linked to local rivalries, political tensions, criminal activities and territorial disputes.
Security agencies have repeatedly stressed the need for stronger surveillance and swift action against illegal manufacturing units to prevent such dangerous incidents.
Experts believe dismantling these networks is essential because crude bombs pose a severe threat to public safety. Even accidental explosions can lead to fatalities, property damage and widespread fear among residents.
The latest arrests indicate that central agencies are determined to identify every individual connected to the illegal bomb-making chain and prevent future incidents.
Authorities have reiterated that the investigation will continue until the entire network, including suppliers, facilitators and organisers, is brought to justice.
