Explosives Seized in CM Vijayan’s Constituency Ahead of Vote Counting Raises Security Concerns

Just a day before Kerala braces for the crucial counting of votes, a significant seizure of explosive materials in Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s Dharmadam constituency has put the spotlight on election-time security and illegal manufacturing networks.

In a late-night operation, police in Kannur recovered crude country-made bombs and a large quantity of explosive powder from a house in Thannada, located in the Meppoyil area of Dharmadam. The constituency, represented by the Chief Minister, has come under sharp focus as the state prepares for vote counting on May 4 , following polling held on April 9 across all 140 Assembly segments.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs , a team from the Edakkad police conducted a search at the premises, suspecting illegal firecracker manufacturing. The operation led to the seizure of five crude bombs and over three kilograms of explosive material , believed to be produced under the guise of firecracker production.

A case has been registered against a local resident, identified as Nanu , in connection with the seizure. Police officials said the raid was part of a wider crackdown on illegal explosive manufacturing , which has reportedly increased in recent months.

Authorities noted that stricter regulations on licensed firecracker shops may have pushed some operators towards unregulated production, raising concerns over safety and potential misuse—especially during sensitive periods like elections.

With counting day approaching, security has been tightened across the region to prevent any untoward incidents. Officials remain on high alert as Kerala awaits its electoral verdict, with public safety and law enforcement vigilance taking centre stage.