Gujarat Police Seize Illegal Firecrackers Worth ₹39.57 Crore After Deadly Blast

Imphal, India Jul 21, 2026 ALN: In a significant enforcement action following a tragic incident, Gujarat Police have seized illegal firecrackers worth over ₹39.57 crore from two warehouses in Ahmedabad. This operation comes just three days after a deadly explosion at an alleged illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in the Ramol area of the city, which resulted in the loss of at least ten lives, including three children. The incident has prompted authorities to intensify their scrutiny of firecracker storage and handling practices across the district.

The police action began when officers from the Changodar Police Station were conducting routine patrols in the Matoda beat area. They received credible intelligence regarding the suspected illegal storage of firecrackers, which led them to conduct a search operation. The operation was carried out in the presence of independent witnesses to ensure transparency and accountability.

During the search, police discovered two warehouses operated under the name 'Abika Trade Link', located on the road connecting Modasar crossroads and Amathapura village. Each warehouse measured approximately 70 by 25 metres and was found to be packed with a staggering 65,954 cartons of various types of firecrackers. The estimated value of the seized stock was ₹39,57,90,000, highlighting the scale of the illegal operation.

Despite the presence of fire extinguishers, sand buckets, and fire-water pipes near the entrance of the warehouses, police noted that the overall fire safety arrangements were grossly inadequate given the substantial quantity of explosives stored. Alarmingly, there was no water sprinkler system in place, which is a critical safety feature in such facilities. Additionally, police found cartons of firecrackers stacked outside the approved storage area, under a makeshift shed covered with thick cloth, which posed a serious risk to human life, nearby residents, and surrounding properties in the event of a fire or explosion.

As part of their investigation, police have identified two individuals connected to the illegal operation. The first is Amitkumar Modi, a resident of Satyagrah Society opposite Satellite Police Station in Ahmedabad, who is described as the licence holder and the individual responsible for the business. The second is Kishan Patel, 29, from Dahegamda village in Bavla taluka, who was present at the warehouse during the operation and is alleged to have managed the facility and supervised the stock.

A case has been registered against both individuals under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, as well as under the Explosives Act of 1884 and the Explosives Rules of 2008. These legal provisions are designed to address the illegal manufacture, storage, and handling of explosives, and the police have indicated that the investigation is ongoing. They are working to determine the legal status of the firm, identify other responsible parties, verify the validity of licenses, and assess compliance with mandatory safety conditions.

The recent seizure is part of a broader crackdown on illegal firecracker manufacturing and storage in the wake of the explosion in Ramol. This explosion, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, has been described as devastating, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety practices in the firecracker industry, particularly in light of the tragic loss of life.

In response to the Ramol blast, three individuals have already been arrested, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established to conduct a thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the explosion. The SIT aims to uncover the root causes of the incident and hold accountable those responsible for the unlawful activities.

In addition to police actions, fire and civic authorities have launched district-wide inspections of industrial units. These inspections have resulted in the sealing of several facilities and the issuance of notices to those found in violation of fire safety regulations. The authorities are taking a proactive approach to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent further tragedies.

As part of their efforts, police have also issued warnings to licensed firecracker dealers. They are reminded to renew their licenses on time and to restrict storage to approved locations and quantities. Furthermore, they must maintain functioning fire safety systems in accordance with regulations set forth by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO), local fire departments, and other authorities. The warnings emphasize the importance of avoiding the storage of firecrackers in unauthorized sheds or temporary structures, maintaining accurate stock and transport records, and ensuring that only trained personnel handle explosive materials.

Authorities have made it clear that violations of licensing or safety conditions could lead to severe consequences, including criminal prosecution, suspension or cancellation of licenses, and the confiscation of any seized stock. This crackdown aims to reinforce the importance of safety in the handling of explosives and to prevent future incidents that could jeopardize public safety.

The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate seizure and legal actions. It highlights the ongoing challenges faced by regulatory authorities in managing the firecracker industry, particularly in regions where illegal manufacturing and storage practices are prevalent. The tragic loss of life in the Ramol explosion serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with the illegal firecracker trade, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and more robust safety measures to protect both workers and the community at large.

As the investigation continues, the Gujarat Police and other authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to combat illegal firecracker operations and to ensure that safety standards are upheld in the industry. The community is urged to report any suspicious activities related to firecracker storage or manufacturing to the authorities to help prevent further tragedies.