NIA arrests another accused in 2022 Bhupatinagar blast case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested another individual in connection with the 2022 Bhupatinagar bomb blast case in West Bengal, which claimed the lives of three people, including a local Trinamool Congress leader. The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the high-intensity explosion that rocked the Purba Medinipur district.

The accused, identified as Pachanan Ghorai, was apprehended on Friday following an extensive probe by the NIA, which had taken over the case from the West Bengal Police. Authorities had earlier issued a non-bailable warrant against Ghorai, who is a resident of Bhupatinagar. His arrest follows several months of investigation and surveillance by the agency.

The blast occurred at the residence of Raj Kumar Manna, the then Trinamool Congress booth president, resulting in his immediate death. Two other individuals, Buddhadeb Manna, also known as Lalu, and Trinamool worker Biswajit Gayen, sustained critical injuries and later succumbed to their wounds. The explosion sent shockwaves through the region, raising concerns about safety and security.

According to NIA officials, the explosion was not an isolated incident but part of a larger criminal conspiracy. Investigators believe that explosives were being supplied for the manufacture of bombs, aimed at inciting terror and violence in the region. The agency has also conducted searches at the homes of three other suspects in connection with the case.

The NIA’s investigation has uncovered links suggesting that the supply of explosives was part of a broader network involved in illegal activities. The agency is continuing its probe to identify other individuals and organizations that may be connected to the conspiracy. Further arrests are expected as the investigation progresses.