Investigation – NIA Expands Probe With Fresh Raids Linked to Ranchi RSS Office Attack
Investigation – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its investigation into the petrol bomb attack on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Ranchi by carrying out fresh search operations at multiple locations in Jharkhand.
Authorities carried out simultaneous raids at five locations in Lohardaga district early Wednesday morning as part of the ongoing investigation into the June attack on the RSS office in Ranchi. The operation, which began around 4 a.m., was conducted with support from the local police, while additional security arrangements were put in place to ensure the searches were completed without disruption.
Search Conducted at Prime Accused’s Residence
One of the key locations searched was the residence of Aman Ansari, identified as the prime accused in the case and currently lodged in judicial custody. Investigators reportedly faced difficulty entering the property after receiving no response at the main entrance.
To gain access, officials sought assistance from the electricity department and used a crane to reach the upper portion of the building. After entering the house through the upper floor, the investigation team carried out a detailed examination of the premises in search of material that could assist the ongoing probe.
Investigation Continues Across Multiple States
The latest searches come just days after the NIA conducted coordinated operations at 20 locations spread across several states. Those raids were also linked to the same investigation, reflecting the agency’s efforts to gather evidence and identify individuals suspected of involvement in the planning and execution of the attack.
Officials are examining whether the incident was part of a broader conspiracy involving multiple individuals and possible links extending beyond Jharkhand. The agency has continued to expand its investigation as new leads emerge.
Details of the June 17 Incident
The attack took place during the early hours of June 17 when two unidentified individuals allegedly attempted to target the RSS office in Ranchi using petrol-filled bottles. According to the police, the bottles were made from sauce containers filled with petrol and thrown toward the premises.
Fortunately, both bottles failed to land inside the compound, preventing significant damage to the property. Investigators said the attempt did not result in injuries or major destruction.
CCTV Footage Helped Investigators
Police officials said CCTV cameras installed near the location captured the movements of the suspects. The footage reportedly showed two young men arriving in a car before parking a short distance from the RSS office. They then walked toward the building before carrying out the attack.
Investigators stated that the first bottle was thrown at around 12:38 a.m., while the second followed approximately one minute later. One bottle struck the roof, shattered, and briefly ignited after the petrol spilled. However, the flames extinguished naturally because there were no combustible materials nearby.
The second bottle landed near the entrance of the premises but did not catch fire, limiting the impact of the attempted attack.
NIA Examining Wider Conspiracy
The NIA later assumed responsibility for the investigation after authorities suspected a possible terror angle in the case. Since taking over, the agency has focused on identifying the full network of accused persons, uncovering the planning behind the incident, and determining whether any interstate connections played a role.
Investigators continue to analyze evidence collected during the recent searches as they work to establish the complete sequence of events and identify anyone else who may have been involved in the alleged conspiracy.