NIA joins probe into derailment attempt of Bhiwani-Prayagraj Express, surveys Kanpur location

An NIA team has joined the investigation in Kanpur after a major train disaster was narrowly avoided on Sunday night. The incident occurred when the Bhiwani-Prayagraj Express, traveling on the tracks, struck an LPG cylinder placed on the rails. The loco pilot managed to bring the train to a sudden stop, averting a catastrophe.

Police reported finding bottles of petrol and matchboxes at the scene, suggesting a potential sabotage attempt. Consequently, a high-level team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), led by a senior female IPS officer from the 2012 batch, has been deployed to the site.

The NIA officials are currently gathering details and surveying the area surrounding the tracks where the LPG cylinder was discovered, according to Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Rajesh Kumar Singh. Additional Director General of Railways has also arrived to assist in the investigation.

FIR filed as ATS and NIA join Kanpur probe

An FIR has been filed, and multiple agencies, including the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and the NIA, are involved in the probe. Kanpur Police have detained six individuals, including two local history-sheeters, and are forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve deeper into the case. The SIT will also explore any connections to the recent derailment of the Sabarmati Express in Kanpur.

Additional Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Harish Chander confirmed the recovery of explosive powder, a bottle of petrol, a wick, and the LPG cylinder. The loco pilot’s quick actions prevented a major disaster, and the train was halted for inspection at Bilhaur station.

Railways have lodged an FIR at Shivrajpur against unidentified suspects, citing possible sabotage. The complaint is registered under sections 287 and 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with provisions of the Explosives Act and the Railways Act.

Five teams and SIT formed to investigate incident

Authorities have set up five investigative teams. The Kanpur Police are also forming an SIT led by a senior officer to further investigate. They will assess whether there are similarities with the recent Sabarmati Express derailment. The UP Director General of Police, Prashant Kumar, has assured that all senior officers are taking the matter seriously and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

ATS Inspector General of Police Nilabja Chowdhry emphasized that all aspects of the incident are being examined. Forensic experts are analyzing the explosive powder, and further forensic examinations will be arranged.

An official indicated that the attempt to derail the train appeared to be the work of an “unskilled” individual and could potentially involve an insider. Efforts to retrieve mobile tower data from the past six days are underway, though some service providers have not yet complied.