In a major security scare in Uttarakhand, as many as 161 gelatin sticks, a type of explosive material, were recovered from near a Government Higher Secondary School in the Almora district.
The matter came to light on Thursday evening after the school principal informed the Salt Police Station that children had spotted a suspicious object while playing nearby. A police team rushed to the spot and immediately cordoned off the area.
On Friday, bomb disposal and dog squad teams conducted a detailed search and collected samples from the site. Police have registered a case against unknown persons under the Indian Explosives Act at the Salt Police Station.
Officials said gelatin rods are commonly used for rock blasting in road construction. Investigators are now trying to ascertain who placed the explosive material near the school and for what purpose.
Almora SSP Devendra Pincha urged the public not to believe rumours, assuring that verified information will be shared as the investigation progresses.
“In Dabra village, around 161 gelatin sticks were found in bushes near the school. The local police reached the spot and called in the BDS team, which carried out an inquiry and searched the entire area. An FIR has been registered under the appropriate sections. Further action is underway,” he said.
The SSP added that four teams have been formed to trace the origin of the gelatin sticks and determine how they were brought to the area.
– Ends
