The Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday confirmed that the deadly explosion inside Nowgam police station in Jammu & Kashmir was an accidental blast that occurred during a forensic sampling process. At least nine people were killed, and officials warn the toll could rise as several personnel remain critically injured.
According to senior officials, the explosion took place around 11:20 pm on Friday, inside a secure open area of the police station where a large quantity of explosive materials had been stored for investigation.
Stored explosives linked to major terror probe
The explosives had been recovered during the recent crackdown on a Red Fort blast-linked terror module, which involved the unearthing of huge quantities of chemicals, detonators and explosive precursors.
“For the last two days, forensic teams were carrying out sampling. Due to the large volume of recovered material, the process continued into late Friday night,” a senior official said.
Prashant Lokhande, Joint Secretary (J&K Division), MHA, confirmed the development, calling it an unfortunate accidental explosion.
“Cause under investigation, speculation unnecessary”: Centre
Lokhande stated:
“The recovered explosive substances were being forwarded for scientific examination. During this standard procedure, an accidental explosion took place. The cause is being investigated, and any speculation is unnecessary. The government stands with the families of the deceased.”
Blast felt 30 km away; severe structural damage
A senior J&K Police officer described the explosion as “so powerful that its shockwave was felt up to 30 km away.”
The blast:
Fire and rescue teams rushed to the spot, and forensic experts have been deployed again to examine the cause.
Part of Jaish-e-Mohammad module investigation
The Nowgam police station was a key hub for the ongoing investigation into a Jaish-e-Mohammad interstate terror module.
Recent raids had recovered:
The volume and volatility of these chemicals made the forensic process challenging, officials said.
Probe continues, families assured support
The Centre has ordered a scientific and technical review into the handling of bulk explosive evidence. Senior police officials visited the blast site and met the injured.
Authorities have assured:
The situation remains tense but under control as teams continue clearing debris and securing the blast site.
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