Explosive Seizures 2024: Unmasking the True Perpetrators

In 2024, India saw the seizure of over 3.59 lakh kilograms of explosives, with the majority recovered from criminals and smugglers rather than extremists, according to the National Crime Records Bureau. Of the total, a dominant share of explosives, including RDX and gunpowder, were taken from criminal elements.

The 2024 statistics released by the National Crime Records Bureau reveal a startling trend in explosive seizures across India. Over 3.59 lakh kilograms of explosive materials were confiscated primarily from criminals and smugglers rather than from extremist groups.

A staggering 3,56,781.007 kg of explosives, making up over 99% of the total, were seized from non-terror elements, signaling a shift in the demographics of those handling such materials. Among these, 3,48,108 kg fell under the category of 'other explosives', with a significant amount of gunpowder and a small portion of plastic explosives and RDX.

Authorities also seized a vast number of explosive devices in 2024, totaling 4,02,611 items, of which 3,93,680 were linked to criminal activities. The data underscores the pressing issue of criminal syndicates' involvement in the illegal handling and distribution of explosive materials, necessitating increased vigilance from law enforcement agencies.