Kannur: Despite the number of political killings and attacks coming down in Kannur, innocent people in the district continue to get injured or at times even end up losing their lives, when all those bombs lying abandoned/concealed in various parts of the district finally explode. Drawing a broad comparison, it can be stated that the situation is more like how it is in the international conflict areas, where a landmine might just explode right under your feet at any moment.  

Post 1998, over 20 such isolated incidents of explosions were reported from the Kannur district. There were many children among those affected. An octogenarian was killed in a very recent explosion at Eranholi. 

It is quite strange that none of the accused in these cases have been caught so far. The investigations never really progressed, always hitting more than one roadblock. As a result, these cases have either been closed or are termed ‘investigation pending’. 

In a steel bomb explosion at Koorara in 1998, a nine-year-old girl called Suryakanthi lost her left eye and palm. This is just one among many such incidents. Later, many incidents happened. Police authorities have highlighted the challenges they face in investigating such cases, noting that bombs are frequently discovered in uninhabited vacant lots. Accidents often occur when individuals attempt to open or handle items collected from elsewhere.

Rag pickers, in particular, have been frequent victims of these explosions. Steel containers and spherical objects resembling balls have been known to detonate unexpectedly when handled out of curiosity. In some instances, buried bombs have exploded during soil excavation.

Case registered for handling explosives if bombs explode

Legal action under the Explosives Act III and IV, is typically initiated in cases where explosives are mishandled, endangering lives and property. In fatal incidents, charges under sections IV and V of the Act are applied, with cases of unnatural death registered accordingly.

Finding the culprits is not easy

Despite concerted efforts in major investigations following such blasts, apprehending those responsible proves to be a formidable task. Bombs are often clandestinely stored in remote fields and similar locations, complicating law enforcement efforts. Authorities have assured that a comprehensive investigation into the recent Eranholi blast is underway, with special operations launched to locate and secure any remaining explosives.

Ajith Kumar, City Police Commissioner