UP Firecracker Factory Blast: Two Arrested, Action Taken Against Police Officers

September 1, 2026

Kaushambi: Two people have been arrested and a case registered against six accused following a deadly firecracker factory blast in Uttar Pradesh’s Kaushambi district that killed 11 people and injured five, officials said on Tuesday.

The blast occurred after a massive fire triggered a series of explosions at a firecracker factory in Manouri Bazaar under Pipri police station limits. Rescue and search operations are continuing amid fears that more people could still be trapped under debris.

Two Arrested, FIR Registered Against Six

Police have arrested Shabnam and Saina, who are being questioned in connection with the incident.

An FIR has been registered against six people under Sections 105 and 288 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 4, 5 and 9B of the Explosives Act, officials said.

The investigation is underway and further legal action will follow based on the findings.

Action Against Police Officials

Kaushambi Police also took action against police personnel over alleged negligence in connection with the operation of the firecracker factory.

The police said prima facie gross negligence and indifference were found in the discharge of official duties, including failure to register information related to the operation of the facility.

Pipri Station House Officer Vikas Singh, Chail outpost house officer Sub-Inspector Amit Dwivedi and former Chail outpost house officer Sub-Inspector Manish Pal were placed on line duty with immediate effect, according to Kaushambi Police.

Earlier, action had also been reported against beat constables Jitendra Kumar and Krishna Kumar in connection with the alleged negligence.

Five Injured, Search Operation Underway

The five injured people are undergoing treatment at Swaroop Rani Nehru (SRN) Hospital in Prayagraj.

Following the explosions, administrative and police teams cordoned off the area and launched rescue and clearance operations.

Officials fear that additional people may still be trapped beneath debris from the factory and nearby structures that collapsed following the blast.

The District Magistrate has assured strict action against those found responsible for the tragedy. Criminal cases will be registered under serious sections of the law, while stringent measures, including property attachment, may be initiated in accordance with government directives.

The investigation and search operations are continuing, with further details awaited.