BHUBANESWAR: What began as a suspected bomb-making operation on a rooftop in the Airfield area ended in flames, panic and two deaths, with a horrific video of the explosion now surfacing. Sehnawaz Malik (26), a history-sheeter, who suffered critical burn injuries in the Jan 27 crude bomb explosion, succumbed during treatment on February 4. Days later, his mother Lizatun Bibi (51), who was also grievously injured in the blast, died at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack on February 10. Malik, Bibi, Malik’s fiancée Truptimayee Mahal (23), and associate Amiya Mallick (27) were critically injured when one or more crude bombs allegedly being assembled on the rooftop of Malik’s residence exploded. Mahal and Mallick remain under treatment at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar. Police said Malik had sustained severe burns. “He had suffered serious burn injuries. He died in the afternoon,” an officer of the Airfield police station said. Investigators suspect the explosion occurred while bombs were being prepared. Malik, who had seven prior criminal cases, including attempted murder and offences under the Arms Act, had been released on bail around six months ago following a political clash in Nayapalli and was under police watch. The intensity of the blast prompted a preliminary inquiry by the National Investigation Agency. The agency later ruled out any terror or radicalisation links, though officials said they examined whether the case involved a larger conspiracy. Forensic sources indicated that highly explosive materials may have been used. “Preliminary findings suggest the possible use of hexahydro trinitro triazine, a compound associated with high explosives. Further analysis is underway,” a forensic official said. Soon after the explosion, bomb disposal squads, fire personnel and forensic teams rushed to the site, collecting remnants and seizing raw materials suspected to have been used in bomb-making. Residents of the rented three-storey building said they were unaware of the alleged illegal activity. “We had no idea. Everyone’s lives were endangered,” a tenant said. Police are continuing to probe whether Malik acted alone or had accomplices, and whether the bombs were intended for criminal or political violence. Authorities said vigilance has been stepped up in sensitive areas of the city following the incident. Meanwhile, a video purportedly capturing the moments of the blast has surfaced, showing flames and chaos on the rooftop. Police said the footage is being verified as part of the investigation.
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