THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Dec 11: The National Investigation Agency has filed a chargesheet against 11 individuals accused of orchestrating the heist of nearly 4,000 kg of explosives in Odisha’s Rourkela district.
Officials said the case involves a major CPI (Maoist) Naxal operation in which armed cadres seized a vehicle transporting explosive materials meant for a stone quarry.
NIA’s probe revealed that the explosives—around 200 packets of 20 kg each—were allegedly diverted to Maoist bases in Jharkhand’s Saranda Forest for planned attacks on security forces and government establishments.
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The agency noted that the theft formed part of a broader Maoist conspiracy to destabilise the state through acts of terror.
The incident dates back to May 27, 2025, when local police intercepted a vehicle carrying explosives from the Itma Explosive Station to the Banko quarry.
A group of 10–15 armed Maoists had reportedly overpowered the driver, seized the vehicle, and attempted to escort it into a nearby forest stronghold before authorities intervened. NIA took over the investigation in June.
All 11 accused have been charged under the UA(P) Act, BNSS, Arms Act and the Explosive Substances Act.
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Those named in the chargesheet include Jarja Munda alias Kulu Munda, Anmol alias Lalchand Hembram, Ramesh alias Anal Da, Pintu Lohra alias Tigar, Laljit alias Lalu, Shiva Bodra alias Shibu, Amit Munda alias Sukhial Munda, Ravi alias Biren Singh, Rajesh alias Mansid, Sohan alias Ranga Punem and Aptan alias Chandra Mohan Hansd.
