Nagaur Explosives Network Exposed: Nursing Worker Among Four Arrested After 10-Tonne Seizure

Nagaur: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the seizure of 10 tonnes of explosives in Rajasthan’s Nagaur district has uncovered a deeply rooted illegal supply network, including the involvement of a contract nursing worker who allegedly used his hospital job as a cover to run an explosives racket.

The explosives were recovered on January 24 in Harsaur, triggering a high-level investigation that has alarmed security agencies. Police have arrested four major suppliers linked to the illegal trade.

Nursing worker ran supply chain for two years

The most startling revelation, according to investigators, is the role of Devaraj Medtiya, who had surrendered his explosives magazine licence two years ago and is currently employed as a contractual nursing worker at Kuchera Community Health Centre. Despite no longer holding a valid licence, he allegedly continued supplying explosives illegally for the past two years.

Officials say he used his professional identity to avoid suspicion while maintaining contact with the underground supply network.

Licensed dealers accused of record manipulation

The three other accused — Bharat Kumar, Mahendra Pal Singh (both from Nagaur) and Bansilal Banjara from Chittorgarh — were licensed explosive dealers. SIT officials allege they manipulated official records to divert large quantities of ammonium nitrate and sell it at inflated prices to criminal elements.

Investigators revealed that Bansilal Banjara held a licence permitting storage capacity of up to 3,000 tonnes, raising serious questions about regulatory oversight. The accused allegedly earned illegal profits by charging ₹10 extra per kilogram over government rates on 50-kg consignments.

Calls for tighter explosives regulation

Following the revelations, the Nagaur Superintendent of Police has submitted a detailed report to police headquarters recommending stricter monitoring of licence holders and reforms to provisions under the Explosives Act. Authorities suspect the network may extend beyond district borders and are expanding the investigation to trace additional links.

Police say further arrests are likely as the SIT continues dismantling the supply chain.