₹5 lakh fake notes, firearms seized in Malda ahead of Assembly polls; 3 arrested

A major seizure of counterfeit currency and illegal firearms in Malda district has raised fresh security concerns ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. In two separate operations, Chanchal Police recovered approximately ₹5 lakh in fake notes and several firearms, arresting three individuals as part of a special pre-poll drive.

According to police sources, the first operation led to the arrest of Abdul Barik, a resident of Khanpara under Chanchal Police Station. Around ₹5 lakh worth of counterfeit currency was allegedly recovered from his possession. Preliminary investigation indicates that the fake notes were brought to Malda from Siliguri and were intended to be circulated in the local market. Police are probing possible links to a larger network involved in the racket.

In a second operation, two alleged arms traffickers — Golam Rabbani and Mizanur Rahman, both residents of the Harishchandrapur Police Station area — were arrested. Four firearms and five rounds of ammunition were seized from them. Initial interrogation suggests that the weapons were sourced from Bihar and were possibly meant for illegal activities.

Malda District Superintendent of Police Abhijit Banerjee addressed a press conference and stated that a special drive is underway against illegal arms and counterfeit currency ahead of the elections. He stressed that unlawful activities will not be tolerated and that strict legal action will be taken against those involved.

The seized counterfeit notes and firearms have been sent for forensic examination. Police are continuing interrogation of the arrested individuals to trace other members of the network. Authorities have also urged residents to report suspicious activities promptly to help maintain peace and law and order during the election period.