A metropolitan court in Ahmedabad has placed the three accused in the firecracker factory blast case under seven days’ police custody. The accused, including factory operator Ramila Dodia, her son Mehul Dodia, and their alleged partner Sadiq Saiyed, were brought before the court following their arrest in connection with the explosion at the ‘New Gujarat Fire Works’ unit in Vastral village.
The police had requested 14 days’ custody, citing lack of cooperation from the accused in the investigation. They emphasized the need for further interrogation to uncover details related to the illegal operation of the factory, procurement of explosives, financial transactions, and any other individuals linked to the unit. However, the court granted a seven-day police remand.
The government prosecutor opposed any bail requests, highlighting the severity of the case where 10 people lost their lives and five others were injured. Notably, four of the deceased were minors, underscoring the gravity of the incident. The explosion occurred at the firecracker manufacturing unit on Ramol-Gatrad Road, leading to a major fire that engulfed the factory and trapped workers inside.
The death toll has now reached 10, with one more victim succumbing to injuries at Civil Hospital. Five injured individuals are still receiving medical treatment. The police have filed a case under relevant sections of the law, alleging that the factory was operating illegally despite its expired license. Investigations are ongoing, with a Special Investigation Team spearheading the probe alongside forensic experts and other agencies.
