Police Seize Four Illegal Pistols in Mekliganj, Two Arrested Ahead of Elections
Synopsis
In a crucial operation, Cooch Behar District Police seized four illegal pistols and arrested two suspects just hours before a major rally by Prime Minister Modi. This action highlights the intensified efforts to maintain law and order ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
Four illegal pistols seized by police.
Two suspects arrested in connection with the arms.
Operation occurred just before a major campaign rally by PM Modi.
Police are enhancing security measures ahead of assembly elections .
Investigations are ongoing to determine the suspects' motives.
Kolkata, April 5 (NationPress) In a significant early morning operation on Sunday, the Cooch Behar District Police successfully intercepted a shipment of illegal arms and ammunition at the Changrabandha Bypass, located under the Mekliganj Police Station in West Bengal, which is currently preparing for elections.
This seizure occurred just ten hours prior to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled address at a major campaign rally in Cooch Behar around 2 p.m. on the same day.
According to sources within the Cooch Behar District Police, the authorities have ramped up their Naka-checking efforts in light of the crucial two-phase assembly elections taking place later this month, particularly given the district's international border with Bangladesh.
"The heightened vigilance was implemented starting Saturday evening due to the Prime Minister's planned event in the district. At approximately 4 a.m. on Sunday, officers at a Naka-checking point on the Changrabandha Bypass flagged down a vehicle as part of their routine checks. From this vehicle, four counterfeit pistols and two rounds of ammunition were confiscated," stated a district police officer.
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with this incident. They have been identified as Manirul Islam and Shamim Rahman, and both have been transferred to the district's Crime Branch for further investigation.
"Interrogations are ongoing to determine their intentions for illegally transporting these arms and ammunition. They will be brought before a district court on Sunday, where the public prosecutor will request their police custody," the district police official remarked.
Initial inquiries reveal that the suspects were traveling from Siliguri in Darjeeling district, with their destination being Dinhata in Cooch Behar district.
The police suspect that these weapons were intended to incite fear during the upcoming elections. A thorough investigation into the matter has been initiated.
In accordance with directives from the Election Commission of India (ECI), the state police are conducting special operations across West Bengal, focusing on the seizure of illegal firearms, explosive materials, liquor, and cash.
The two-phase assembly elections in West Bengal are slated for April 23 and April 29. The first phase will encompass 152 Assembly constituencies, while the second will cover the remaining 142 seats.
The results are expected to be announced on May 4.
Point of View
This incident reflects the heightened security measures being implemented in West Bengal ahead of the assembly elections. The seizure of illegal arms underscores the potential challenges to maintaining peace during this politically sensitive period.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was seized by the police?
The police recovered four counterfeit pistols and two rounds of ammunition from a vehicle during a routine check.
Why was the police operation intensified?
The operation was intensified due to the upcoming assembly elections and a scheduled campaign rally by Prime Minister Modi.
Who were the arrested individuals?
The arrested individuals are Manirul Islam and Shamim Rahman, who were found in possession of the illegal firearms.
What are the dates for the upcoming assembly elections?
The assembly elections in West Bengal are scheduled for April 23 and April 29.
What is the significance of this operation?
The operation highlights efforts to prevent potential violence and maintain law and order during the election period.
