Inter-state illegal arms trafficking ring busted in Bengal; pistol, cash seized

The West Bengal Police's Special Task Force (STF) has busted an inter-state illegal arms trafficking network operating across West Bengal, Bihar and Jharkhand following a 17-day operation that began on September 25, 2026. The crackdown led to multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal firearms, ammunition and Rs. 3.90 lakh in cash suspected to be proceeds from illegal arms sales.The operation was launched after the arrest of Md. Farhan, alias Musan, in Durgapur, West Bengal. Two pistols, two magazines and 20 live rounds were recovered from his possession, providing the STF with an initial lead into the suspected arms trafficking network.FINANCIAL TRAILS LED TO FURTHER ARRESTSFollowing Farhan's arrest, STF personnel tracked financial trails and supply chains across neighbouring states, leading to a series of raids and further arrests during the operation.Those arrested in connection with the case include Md. Farhan, Md. Shahnawaz Alam, alias Guddu, Pawan Kumar Singh and Ganesh Rana. The operation also led to the recovery of two 9 mm pistol, a magazine, four live rounds and Rs. 3.90 lakh in cash. According to the information shared by the STF, the seizures form part of the evidence being examined in connection with the suspected illegal arms trade.PROBE ON TO TRACE MORE ASSOCIATESThe STF is continuing its investigation to identify and trace other associates linked to the network, dismantle the suspected weapons supply chain and locate additional manufacturing hubs connected to the racket. The operation has brought the alleged inter-state arms trafficking network spanning West Bengal, Bihar and Jharkhand under investigation, with further action expected as the agency pursues additional leads.- Ends