ArmsTrafficking – Five Held in Mumbai Over Illegal Weapons Sale Plot
ArmsTrafficking – Mumbai police have detained five individuals suspected of attempting to trade unlicensed firearms and ammunition, following a focused operation in the city’s Pydhonie locality.
The Mumbai Crime Branch confirmed that the arrests were carried out after receiving precise intelligence about a possible illegal arms deal. Acting on this information, officers from the Anti-Extortion Cell moved quickly to intercept the suspects before the transaction could take place.
Intelligence Tip Leads to Swift Police Action
According to officials, the operation was initiated after authorities were alerted that a group would assemble in the area to sell prohibited weapons. Based on this input, a team conducted a raid at a hotel situated on Narayan Dhuru Street. The action was planned carefully to ensure that the suspects could be apprehended without any risk to public safety.
When officers entered the premises, they found five individuals present at the location. A detailed search of the room led to the recovery of multiple firearms and ammunition, confirming the initial intelligence.
Weapons and Ammunition Seized During Raid
Police officials reported that the team recovered three pistols along with three magazines and 21 live cartridges. None of the individuals present could produce any legal documentation or license authorizing possession of the weapons.
During preliminary questioning, investigators said the suspects admitted that the firearms had been brought for the purpose of sale. The seizure is considered significant, as it may have prevented the weapons from entering illegal circulation within the city.
Details of the Accused and Their Background
The five individuals taken into custody have been identified as Surendra Amarlalji Minna (25), Rohit Ghanshyam Mina (24), Kartik Bijander Parcha (19), Deepak Kumar Chitarmal Bil (26), and Ronuronak Pannalal Merotha (25). Officials stated that the group consists of young men aged between 19 and 26 years.
Preliminary findings suggest that the accused are originally from Rajasthan and Haryana. Investigators are now examining how they came into possession of the weapons and whether they have been involved in similar activities in the past.
Legal Action and Charges Filed
Following the arrests, a case has been registered at the Pydhonie Police Station. The charges have been filed under relevant sections of the Arms Act, including Sections 3 and 25, which deal with unlawful possession and sale of firearms. Additional provisions under Sections 37(1)(A) and 135 have also been invoked.
Police officials emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against those involved in illegal arms activities, particularly when such operations pose a threat to public safety and law enforcement.
Investigation Expands to Possible Criminal Links
Authorities are now exploring whether the arrested individuals have connections with larger criminal networks. One of the key angles under investigation is a possible link to the Bishnoi gang, which has been associated with organized crime activities in the past.
Officials indicated that further inquiries are underway to trace the origin of the seized firearms. Investigators are also examining whether the accused were acting independently or as part of a broader arms distribution network operating across states.
The Crime Branch has stated that additional arrests or developments may follow as the probe progresses. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb illegal arms trafficking and prevent such weapons from reaching criminal elements.