Karwar: The illegal manufacture and storage of crude country-made bombs in Uttara Kannada district has come under intense scrutiny following the recent Tumakuru blast. In a significant development, Ankola police have arrested three persons for alleged possession of such explosives.For years, crude bombs have quietly circulated in parts of Uttara Kannada, particularly in rural and forest-fringe areas. Farmers, dealing with frequent crop damage caused by wild animals like wild boars, have often resorted to these illegal devices as a means of protection.The issue, however, gained statewide attention after the recent Tumakuru incident with Nagendra Gouda’s alleged involvement, where a crude bomb explosion led to fatal consequences. Investigations revealed that the explosive device may have been sourced from the coastal belt. The blast, which left a vehicle completely charred, underscored the grave danger these devices pose—especially if used in populated areas.Against this backdrop, Ankola police carried out a targeted operation on June 30 based on credible intelligence. A team led by police inspector Chandrashekhar, while on patrol near Hattikeri, received information that two residents of Honnalli village—Narayan Gouda and Nagaraj Gouda—had stored crude bombs. Police swiftly involved the Anti-Sabotage Check (ASC) team and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) and reached the village. During questioning, the accused admitted to possessing the bombs, claiming they were intended for fishing. They also revealed that after learning about a relative’s death in the Tumakuru explosion, they had hidden the explosives in a nearby forest out of fear.The duo later led police to the concealed location, where three crude bombs were recovered and safely seized. Preliminary investigation indicated that the explosives had been supplied by Sandeep Gouda, a resident of Shiragunj, who was subsequently arrested.A case has been registered at Ankola police station under Sections 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act, 1908, and Section 288 of the BNS. All three accused are currently in custody, and further investigation is underway to trace the broader supply chain.This is not the first such incident in the district. Past explosions in Haliyal and Ankola have resulted in loss of life and property, raising repeated concerns over the unchecked spread of explosive materials. A week ago, there was an accidental blast in a house at Haliyal where the crude bombs were stored. Investigations in earlier cases had even pointed to the involvement of individuals linked to firecracker manufacturing.
