The revelations came during the interrogation of Naveen Yadav, who was arrested by City Kotwali police and produced before a local court on Saturday. Police have sought a two-day remand to question him further. According to investigators, Yadav admitted that his role was limited to arranging labourers for the illegal factory, while other accused handled procurement and sale.
As per Yadav’s statement, raw materials used in making firecrackers—including gunpowder, fuses, and related items—were supplied by Jeetu Bhati, a resident of Dewas. Bhati allegedly transported the explosive material to the factory premises and oversaw the production process. Police sources said Bhati is believed to be linked to the incense stick trade, which was allegedly used as a front to source or move materials discreetly.
Yadav further told police that the responsibility for selling and storing the firecrackers rested with Congress leader Professor Imran Paryani. Investigators said Paryani holds valid licences for stocking and selling firecrackers, which allegedly made it easier to mix illegally manufactured stock with licensed inventory. Police suspect the firecrackers produced at the illegal unit were meant to be stored at Paryani’s warehouse and sold through legitimate channels.
City Kotwali Station House Officer Praveen Arya said Yadav’s name surfaced earlier during the interrogation of Arbaaz Khan, a pickup vehicle driver who was arrested with seized firecracker material. “Based on that input, Naveen Yadav was traced and arrested. During questioning, he disclosed his limited role as a labour supplier and named others involved in the racket,” Arya said.
Police said both Jeetu Bhati and Professor Imran Paryani are currently absconding. Search operations are underway at multiple locations in Dewas, Khandwa, and nearby districts to trace them. Officials said additional arrests are likely as the investigation progresses and financial links are examined.
The illegal factory case has raised concerns about regulatory loopholes and the misuse of valid licences to facilitate unlawful manufacturing. Authorities are now verifying licensing records, stock registers, and supply routes to determine the scale of the operation and identify any safety violations.
Police said the investigation will focus on establishing accountability, tracing the movement of explosive material, and ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice. Further action will depend on evidence gathered during custodial interrogation and forensic analysis of seized material.
