Kolkata: Police have arrested a second accused in connection with the Rajarhat house explosion in Kolkata, further intensifying the investigation into the incident that prompted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to take over the case.
The latest arrest comes a day after the main accused was apprehended, while investigators continue to probe the source of the explosives and identify others allegedly involved in the case.
Broker arrested for allegedly arranging rented house using fake identity
The second accused, identified as Shahenshah, was arrested after prolonged questioning. According to police, he allegedly acted as a broker and helped the main accused, Mohammad Shamim, rent a room in the house by using a fake identity.
Mohammad Shamim had earlier been arrested from Sodepur in North 24 Parganas district.
Police have also detained a minor and the house owner, Zulfiqar Ali, for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. Another suspect is currently absconding, and search operations are underway.
Fresh bombs recovered after explosion
The explosion occurred late on Friday night at a house in the Supari Bagan area of Dakshin Narayanpur in Rajarhat, on the northern outskirts of Kolkata. One person sustained injuries in the blast.
During the initial investigation, police and bomb disposal squads recovered two live improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from the premises after the explosion, raising serious security concerns.
Following the recovery of explosive materials, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) took over the probe. Forensic experts have also examined the blast site to determine the nature of the explosives and establish the exact cause of the explosion.
Investigation underway to identify wider network
Investigators are examining whether the explosion was linked to the illegal storage or manufacture of explosive materials. Digital evidence, forensic findings and witness statements are being analysed to trace the source of the explosives and identify all those involved.
Meanwhile, Rajarhat-New Town MLA Piyush Kanodia visited the blast site and interacted with local residents, assuring them of support and calling for strict action against those responsible.
The NIA and West Bengal Police are continuing their investigation, with officials indicating that further arrests cannot be ruled out as the probe progresses.