NIA arrests alleged mastermind in illegal explosives case from Kerala’s Manjeri
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested T.A. Harris in Kerala, identifying him as the mastermind behind a massive illegal explosives cache discovered in 2026. The investigation, which spans across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, has led to ten arrests in connection with the unlicensed stockpiling of gelatin sticks and detonators.
Why it matters
The case highlights significant national security concerns regarding the illegal distribution of industrial explosives and the potential for organized criminal or militant activity.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has reportedly arrested T.A. Harris, the alleged mastermind in a case involving the seizure of a huge cache of explosives from Chemmad, near Tirurangadi, in Kerala’s Malappuram district. He was reportedly arrested from Manjeri in the district.
According to the NIA, Mr. Harris played a key role in illegally procuring, stockpiling and distributing the explosives.
The case relates to the seizure of 89,600 gelatin sticks and 10,500 non-electric detonators from a hollow bricks factory compound at Chemmad on February 7, 2026. They were stored in boxes and were found hidden among onion sacks.
The case was handed over to the NIA after the explosives were found to have been brought without a licence. The NIA took over the investigation citing its national security implications.
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