Six gelatin sticks and multiple detonators from a plastic bag abandoned near the toilet at the Kalasipalya BMTC bus stand were recovered on Wednesday. The discovery prompted an immediate response from the bomb disposal squad, with authorities treating the matter as a potential threat to public safety.
The location—used daily by thousands of commuters—was swiftly cordoned off as police teams investigated whether this was an isolated case or part of a larger plan.
What are Gelatin Sticks?
Gelatin sticks are a type of commercial explosive, often used in mining, construction, or roadwork. On their own, they are not instantly dangerous unless activated by a detonator or blasting cap.
⚠️ Risk Level:
| Component | Risk Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Gelatin sticks alone | Low to Moderate | Cannot explode on their own. Need a detonator to trigger an explosion. Risk if mishandled or exposed to fire. |
| Gelatin + Detonators (together) | High | Extremely dangerous. Fully functional explosive setup. It can be triggered intentionally or accidentally. |
Immediate Police Response
Upon spotting an unattended bag, BMTC security staff alerted officials, who in turn called the police. A bomb disposal squad and dog squad were swiftly deployed to the location. The area was cordoned off, and a thorough search was carried out.
“Six gelatin sticks and some detonators were found in a carry bag near the toilet at Kalasipalya bus stand,” confirmed S Girish, Deputy Commissioner of Police (West Division), Bengaluru.
Case Registered Under Explosives Law
A case has been filed under relevant sections of the Explosive Substances Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including:
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Section 288 – negligent conduct concerning explosive substances
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Section 61 – criminal conspiracy
The complaint was lodged by the Assistant Traffic Superintendent at BMTC after being informed by two on-duty personnel—Prabhavati and Raju—who discovered the bag abandoned outside the toilet.
Investigations Underway
According to the FIR, the suspicious bag was brought to the complainant’s office around 1:15 PM, hours after routine surveillance showed nothing unusual. Upon inspecting the contents, officials suspected explosive material and contacted police control.
Officials suspect malicious intent, considering the strategic placement of explosives in a crowded public space. CCTV footage from the bus stand is currently being reviewed to trace the individual who left the bag behind.
“Since Kalasipalya bus stand sees heavy footfall, there is strong reason to believe that the explosives were placed with the intention of endangering public life and property,” the FIR stated.
Recent Context: Rameshwaram Café Blast
The incident has raised concerns as Bengaluru continues to recover from a blast at Rameshwaram Café last year, which injured at least 10 people. That case is currently under NIA (National Investigation Agency)
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a coordinated threat, though no direct link has been confirmed yet.
Eyewitness Account
A staff member managing the public toilet told the media:
“Someone left a plastic bag near the facility. We alerted BMTC mechanics, who opened it and suspected it contained explosives. They informed the police, who later confirmed it held gelatin sticks and detonators.”
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities urge the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity in public places.
( Inputs – PTI,NDTV)
