In a significant breakthrough against illegal arms trafficking, the Bidar City Police have apprehended two individuals and recovered a substantial cache of illegal weaponry. The operation, carried out following credible intelligence regarding an arms deal on the outskirts of the city, has dealt a blow to local criminal networks attempting to proliferate illegal firearms in the region.

Details of the Raid and Seizure

Superintendent of Police Pradeep Gunti confirmed during a press briefing that the police team conducted a strategic raid near the Ring Road area on Wednesday evening. Upon intercepting the suspects, officers discovered three bags containing five country-made pistols, 26 live cartridges, 10 empty cartridge cases, and five swords. A motorcycle used by the perpetrators was also impounded. The total estimated value of the seized illegal goods stands at ₹6.73 lakh.

The Maharashtra Link and Modus Operandi

The investigation has revealed a cross-border criminal link. During preliminary interrogation, the arrested duo confessed to procuring the firearms from Nanded in Maharashtra. Their objective was to transport these weapons to Bidar to sell them at significantly higher prices to local criminals. Alarmingly, the suspects admitted to firing 10 rounds of ammunition to test the functionality of the weapons before attempting the sale, indicating a high level of brazenness and potential threat to public safety.

Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation

The police have registered a formal case under the Arms Act. While the two arrested individuals have been remanded to judicial custody, a manhunt is underway to apprehend two other accomplices who managed to flee the scene. Additional Superintendent of Police Chandrakant Pujari and other senior officials are overseeing the investigation. The police administration has issued a stern warning to the public against engaging in the trade of illegal arms or narcotics, urging citizens to act as eyes and ears for law enforcement.