Bhangar blast case: NIA arrests absconding former TMC MLA Saokat Molla from South 24 Parganas

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested absconding former TMC MLA Saokat Molla, identified by investigators as the principal accused and alleged mastermind in the Bhangar bomb blast case that exposed an illegal bomb-making operation before the West Bengal Assembly elections.

Molla, who had remained out of reach for investigators, was apprehended in the South 24 Parganas district following sustained tracking and search operations by the NIA.

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The arrest marks a major breakthrough in the probe, with investigators claiming that Saokat Molla played a central role not only in the planning of the operation but also in efforts to conceal evidence after the deadly explosion.

NIA names Saokat Molla as prime conspirator

According to findings gathered during the investigation, Saokat Molla allegedly instructed other accused persons to manufacture crude bombs before the Assembly elections. The explosion occurred during the preparation of these explosives, killing one of the bomb makers and injuring several others.

Investigators have further alleged that after the blast, Molla directed associates to interfere with the crime scene in an attempt to obstruct the investigation and conceal crucial evidence.

The former legislator is the fourth person arrested in the case.

Arrest follows intensified manhunt

The arrest came after a series of operations carried out by the NIA in connection with the case.

Officials said Molla had been evading investigators for an extended period before being traced and taken into custody in South 24 Parganas district. His detention follows the recent arrest of another accused linked to the transportation of victims and injured persons after the explosion.

The agency is now questioning the arrested individuals to determine whether a broader conspiracy was involved.

The NIA had earlier arrested Sainur Molla, who allegedly drove the Scorpio vehicle used to move those affected by the blast, including the individual who died in the explosion.

The agency believes the movement of individuals and materials following the blast could provide important clues about the network behind the operation.

Searches yield fresh evidence

As part of the ongoing probe, NIA teams conducted extensive searches at multiple locations linked to the accused.

During these operations, investigators recovered documents, electronic gadgets and digital material that are now being examined for forensic and evidentiary purposes.

Officials said the recovered material is expected to help establish the sequence of events leading up to the blast and identify additional individuals connected to the case.

With the arrest of Saokat Molla, investigators are now focusing on uncovering the full chain of planning, execution and post-blast activities linked to the case.