Bengaluru, July 23: A major security scare unfolded in western Bengaluru on Wednesday morning when locals discovered a suspicious carry bag near the public toilet at the bustling Kalasipalya BMTC bus stand. Upon inspection, authorities confirmed that the bag contained six gelatin sticks and multiple detonators—materials often associated with explosive devices.
The suspicious package was first noticed by concerned commuters, who immediately informed the police. In response, law enforcement and bomb disposal units swiftly arrived at the location and cordoned off the area to prevent any untoward incident. The bus stand premises were evacuated as a precautionary measure, and operations at the terminal were halted temporarily.
Speaking from the scene, a senior Bengaluru police officer confirmed the contents of the bag. “We found six gelatin sticks along with detonators. The explosives have been safely secured and sent for forensic examination. An investigation is underway to determine where they came from and whether they were placed with malicious intent,” he said.
CCTV Footage Under Review
Police have begun analyzing footage from nearby CCTV cameras in hopes of identifying the individual(s) who placed the carry bag. While no suspects have been named yet, officers said that no potential angle—including terror-related motives, local disputes, or even a deliberate attempt to spread fear—has been ruled out.
Traffic Disruption and Heightened Vigilance
Traffic near the Kalasipalya terminal came to a standstill for several hours as the area was sealed off. Commuters and local shopkeepers were asked to vacate the vicinity while the bomb squad conducted a meticulous search for additional threats.
Although no injuries or property damage occurred, the discovery has rattled residents and daily commuters who frequent the bus stand, one of the city’s busiest transport hubs.
Security Concerns Amid National Alerts
This unsettling discovery comes at a time when security has already been tightened across major Indian cities due to intelligence alerts. The timing and location of the explosives have led to increased concern among officials, though they remain cautious in speculating about the motives behind the act.
“We are not jumping to conclusions, but we are taking this extremely seriously,” the officer added. “All aspects—from possible mischief to something more organized—are on the table.”
Public Reaction and Appeal for Calm
Locals in the Kalasipalya area have expressed shock and concern over the incident. “This is a very crowded place. It’s scary to think what could have happened if someone hadn’t noticed that bag in time,” said Ramesh, a street vendor near the terminal.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity or unattended bags in public places. Additional security personnel have been deployed in and around Kalasipalya and other critical locations across the city.
The Bengaluru police, with support from forensic and intelligence units, continue to investigate the origin and purpose of the explosive materials. As the city stays on high alert, the focus remains on preventing any future incidents and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
