Did Bengal Police Uncover an Illegal Arms Factory?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Significant police operation led to the bust of an illegal arms factory.
- Two suspects were arrested, including an individual with a previous criminal record.
- A variety of firearms manufacturing equipment was discovered.
- The investigation may reveal connections to a larger criminal organization.
- Community safety concerns have risen following this incident.
Kolkata, Sep 9 (NationPress) The West Bengal Police announced on Tuesday the dismantling of an illegal arms manufacturing facility in the South 24 Parganas district, resulting in the arrest of two individuals linked to the operation. A significant cache of equipment used for firearms production was seized from a partially constructed home located in the Hasanpur region of the district.
Acting on intelligence gathered from confidential sources, approximately 15 officers, led by Sub-divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Abhishek Ranjan of the Baruipur police district, conducted a raid in Hasanpur on Monday night. Upon entering the under-construction residence, authorities discovered a vast array of firearms manufacturing tools. During the operation, it became evident that firearms were actively being produced. The suspects attempted to flee upon noticing the police presence but were apprehended. Recovered items included a welding machine, around 2 kilograms of gunpowder, and various components for assembling single-barrel guns.
Police reports indicate that the residence had been rented approximately three months prior, facilitating the covert production of weapons. Among the arrested is Firoz Gazi, previously implicated in an older murder case, alongside another suspect, Bhaben Pal.
Authorities suspect that the manufactured arms were intended for use in criminal activities and are investigating whether a larger syndicate is involved.
The suspects have been presented before the Baruipur Sub-district Court, where they have been remanded into police custody.
SDPO Abhishek Ranjan stated, "The equipment retrieved indicates that weapons production has been ongoing here for an extended period. We will thoroughly investigate the individuals involved and the intended use of these firearms."
Meanwhile, the local community is abuzz with questions about how a residence could be transformed into an illegal weapons factory so rapidly.