Bengal STF cracks illegal arms racket: 4 arrested, 190 live cartridges seized from Kolkata store

The Bengal Special Task Force (STF) has busted a major illegal arms racket operating from Kolkata, leading to the arrest of four individuals, including an employee of a well-known arms and ammunition store. A total of 190 live pistol cartridges, nine 12-bore cartridges, and a double-barrel gun were seized during the operation. The arrests and seizures were made following a raid conducted in the Jibantala police station area in coordination with Baruipur district police.

Investigators revealed that the illegal arms trade was being run from Nursing Chandar Daw & Co., a licensed arms and ammunition store in B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata. The store was allegedly being used to traffic weapons and ammunition to criminal networks. The STF uncovered that the cartridges recovered were factory-produced and intended for illegal distribution. Officials are now verifying the extent of the network and possible links to other firearm-related crimes.

This crackdown follows a series of shootouts in Bengal, including a recent attack in Malda where TMC leader Dulal Sarkar was targeted. The STF has been investigating the source of illegal firearms used in these incidents. The arrested individuals are being interrogated to identify additional links in the supply chain. Forensic analysis of the seized ammunition is also underway to trace its origin and distribution route.

Officials have confirmed that legal proceedings have begun against the accused under relevant sections of the Arms Act. The STF is also working to determine whether more individuals or entities are involved in the smuggling network. Further raids and arrests may follow as part of the ongoing investigation.