Gujarat High Court clerk narrowly escapes parcel bomb attack
In a fresh development, it has come to light that a high court clerk narrowly escaped a targeted parcel bomb attack allegedly orchestrated by Rupen Barot to settle a personal grudge. The plan went awry when Barot prematurely detonated the bomb using a remote control, causing it to explode in the hands of the courier. The blast left the courier with severe injuries, injured two others, and triggered panic in the neighbourhood.
Grudge over divorce sparks deadly plot
Preliminary investigations revealed that Barot held a grudge against high court clerk Baldev Sukhadia, whom he blamed for his ongoing divorce proceedings with his wife Hetal. Hetal, who was training as a lawyer under Baldev's guidance, had previously developed a professional relationship with him. Seeking revenge, Barot reportedly crafted the bomb at home and enlisted an acquaintance to deliver it.
On Friday evening, a youth arrived at Gadhvi’s residence with the parcel, claiming it was sent by ‘Sureshbhai’. Suspicious, Gadhvi asked the courier to confirm the sender’s details over the phone. When the courier insisted the parcel must be accepted, smoke suddenly began to emanate from the package. Moments later, the bomb exploded, injuring the courier.
Police probe uncovers illegal arms manufacturing
Following the explosion, police officers, led by senior officials, launched a thorough investigation. Gadhvi named Rupen Barot as a suspect, citing his previous threats related to the divorce. A subsequent raid at Barot’s house in Godavari Apartments, Chandkheda, uncovered bomb-making materials, three country-made pistols, and evidence suggesting a well-planned attack.
Investigators discovered that Barot was involved in manufacturing single-shot country-made pistols at home. The recovered pistols were confirmed to have been crafted by him. Police suspect Barot was selling these weapons on demand. The extent of his illegal activities, including the number of firearms sold, is under investigation.
Illegal liquor trade and gig economy involvement
Further inquiries revealed that Barot and his associate smuggled illicit liquor (IMFL) from Rajasthan, which they sold to sustain themselves. During their free time, they reportedly provided two-wheeler taxi services through an app-based platform (Rapido).
Professional help suspected in bomb creation
The bomb's sophisticated design featuring shards of glass, razor blades, and ball bearings has led police to suspect Barot had professional assistance in its construction. Investigators believe Barot may have made these connections while serving a previous jail sentence.
Courier interrogated for leads
The injured courier, identified as Gaurav Gadhvi, disclosed during questioning that he was recruited by Barot’s associate, Rohan Rawal. Gaurav, who lost his job at ONGC and now works at a garage, was promised substantial payment for delivering the parcel. Barot and Rawal monitored the delivery attempt from a nearby rickshaw. Believing the parcel had reached Gadhvi, Barot detonated the bomb remotely.
Primary suspect’s criminal history
Rupen Barot has a history of criminal activity, including multiple cases related to gambling and prohibition violations. He has previously served a sentence under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities (PASA) Act.
Barot was also involved in duplicate IMFL manufacturing case in the past and was arrested by police in the matter.
Potential catastrophe averted
Police noted that the bomb could have caused significant casualties if it had exploded inside Gadhvi’s residence. The Crime Branch is actively investigating Barot’s connections, his criminal network, and the source of the explosive materials.
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