Blast, flames, screams and deaths: Criminal, his mother die while preparing bombs on rooftop; video surfaces

A suspected bomb-making operation in Bhubaneswar ended in a deadly rooftop explosion.
Two people later died from severe burn injuries as investigators uncovered explosive materials.
A disturbing video of the blast has now surfaced, intensifying public concern.

What happened:
A rooftop explosion during alleged crude bomb preparation killed a criminal and his mother in Bhubaneswar.

Why it matters now:
The case raises urgent questions about illegal explosives, urban safety, and criminal networks operating inside residential areas.

What changes for people:
Police vigilance has increased in sensitive zones, with tighter monitoring of suspicious activities and materials.

Who is affected:
Local residents, law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and communities in Bhubaneswar’s Airfield area.

A deadly explosion on a residential rooftop

What began as a suspected attempt to assemble crude bombs ended in tragedy in Bhubaneswar’s Airfield area. On January 27, a powerful explosion ripped through the rooftop of a rented three-storey building, triggering flames, panic, and chaos. Sehnawaz Malik (26), described by police as a history-sheeter, suffered critical burn injuries and died during treatment on February 4.

Days later, the toll rose further. Malik’s mother, Lizatun Bibi (51), who was also badly injured in the same blast, succumbed at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack on February 10. Their deaths have turned what was initially treated as a criminal investigation into a wider public safety concern.

Others injured, investigation widens

At least two others were critically injured in the explosion. Truptimayee Mahal (23), Malik’s fiancée, and Amiya Mallick (27), an associate, remain under treatment at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar. Police officials said Malik had sustained extremely severe burns and was under constant medical supervision before he died.

Investigators believe the explosion occurred while one or more crude bombs were being assembled on the rooftop. The force of the blast was strong enough to alert emergency services across the area, prompting an immediate response.

Criminal background under scrutiny

Police records show Malik had seven prior criminal cases, including attempted murder and violations under the Arms Act. He had been released on bail around six months ago following a political clash in Nayapalli and was reportedly under police surveillance at the time of the explosion.

Authorities are now examining whether Malik was acting alone or as part of a broader network. Investigators are also probing whether the bombs were intended for criminal extortion, gang rivalry, or political violence.

Explosive materials and forensic findings

The intensity of the blast triggered a preliminary inquiry by the National Investigation Agency. While officials later ruled out terror or radicalisation links, they did examine the possibility of a larger conspiracy. Forensic sources said early findings suggest the possible use of hexahydro trinitro triazine (RDX) or a similar high-grade explosive compound.

Bomb disposal squads, fire services, and forensic teams were deployed to the site soon after the incident. They collected debris, seized raw materials suspected to be used in bomb-making, and secured the building to prevent further risk.

Shock among residents

Residents of the building said they were completely unaware of any illegal activity. Tenants described scenes of fear as flames and smoke engulfed the rooftop. “We had no idea this was happening. Everyone’s lives were endangered,” one resident said.

The emergence of a video allegedly showing the moment of the blast has further shaken the community. The footage reportedly captures flames erupting and people screaming as the explosion unfolds.

Heightened security and unanswered questions

Police have stepped up vigilance in sensitive parts of the city following the incident. Authorities say they are tracking the source of the explosive materials and checking whether similar activities are underway elsewhere.

Key questions remain unanswered: who supplied the explosives, what the intended target was, and whether others were involved behind the scenes.

Bottom line:
A suspected rooftop bomb-making operation in Bhubaneswar has resulted in two deaths, exposed serious lapses in urban safety, and highlighted the dangers of criminal use of high-grade explosives within residential areas.

What to watch next:
Police findings on the source of explosives, possible accomplices, and whether criminal or political motives were behind the deadly blast.