Bengaluru, May 11: Security concerns have escalated following the discovery of gelatin sticks along the route of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Bengaluru. In response, the Karnataka police have intensified their investigation, forming six special inquiry teams to delve deeper into the matter.
Authorities report that teams from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Central Crime Branch (CCB), and other agencies are actively questioning a man named Lohit. It is alleged that he made a threatening phone call shortly before the Prime Minister’s visit. Hours later, explosives were found in a suspicious box near the PM’s convoy route.
According to sources, police detained Lohit after receiving a call from a resident of the Koramangala area. Following the discovery of the gelatin sticks, multiple agencies began investigating his potential connections to the incident.
By late Sunday night, investigators were still interrogating the suspect. Officials from the NIA, Bengaluru City Police, and Bengaluru South Division Police were involved in the questioning. Reports indicate that Lohit was questioned continuously from 11 AM until late at night, with efforts to verify his background.
During the investigation, it emerged that Lohit claimed to be the son of a former ISRO employee, prompting police to question his parents as well. Authorities have also received indications that Lohit may be struggling with mental health issues.
Sources reveal that during questioning, Lohit repeatedly stated, “The country is going to ruin.” This has led investigators to take a closer look at his mental state and the motives behind his threats.
The police are currently gathering information about the gelatin sticks used in local mines within the Kaggilapura police jurisdiction, while also reviewing CCTV footage from the area.
Reports indicate that the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad had conducted a thorough sweep of the route just a day before the Prime Minister’s visit. However, investigators suspect that the box containing the explosives may have been placed there early Sunday morning.
According to police, a constable on security duty spotted the suspicious box on the roadside. Upon notification, the bomb squad arrived at the scene. When the box was opened, it contained two gelatin sticks, four detonators, a matchbox, and two batteries.
Authorities stated that the explosives were sealed within the box with tape. The police promptly seized the materials and conducted a comprehensive search along the entire route. The Prime Minister’s convoy was only allowed to proceed after the security checks were completed.
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