At least three people were killed and three others injured in an explosion at an alleged illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Alampur village, under the Jamo Bazaar police station area of Bihar’s Siwan district, on Friday. The district administration and police have launched an investigation into the incident, while the station house officer (SHO) and a local police officer have been suspended for alleged negligence.
“According to initial reports, the explosion took place in a house where firecrackers were stored. Three people were killed, and three others suffered minor injuries,” PTI quoted Siwan District Magistrate Vijay Prakash Meena.
The explosion triggered a series of blasts at the house in Alampur village, under the Jamo Bazaar police station area. The house reportedly belonged to local resident Mohammad Amiruddin Mian, who was said to be involved in the firecracker trade.
Several people were reportedly inside the house when the fire broke out. The flames spread to other firecrackers stored on the premises, setting off repeated blasts in the densely populated area.
The force of the explosions caused the front portion of the house to collapse, with debris spilling onto the adjoining road. The blasts continued intermittently for nearly two hours, triggering panic in the surrounding area.
Three Dead, District Officials Inspect Blast Site
Following the explosion on October 23, the station chief reached the scene and began an investigation. District Magistrate, Superintendent of Police and Sub-Divisional Officer also inspected the site in view of the seriousness of the incident.
The district administration deployed teams from the fire brigade, electricity department and medical services. A dog squad was also called to the spot, while a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team collected evidence for scientific examination.
The area has been cordoned off as investigators examine the site and gather evidence to establish the circumstances that led to the explosion.
The medical team has confirmed the deaths of three people. The identities of the deceased and the full extent of the casualties have not been established in the information available so far.
SHO And Local Police Officer Suspended
The Superintendent of Police ordered the formation of a special police team to investigate the incident. The Jamo Bazaar police station chief and local police officer Chandrika Manjhi have been suspended with immediate effect over alleged negligence at the police station level.
According to the police, an FIR has been registered based on a statement in connection with the incident. The investigation has been assigned to CI Maharajganj.
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Police said all aspects of the case were being examined and that further action would be taken against those found responsible.
Investigation Underway
The investigation is continuing, with forensic teams collecting evidence and authorities examining the circumstances surrounding the firecracker unit.
Officials have said further information will be released as the investigation progresses. The confirmed death toll currently stands at three, while the full details of the incident and the identities of the victims remain to be established.