Crime – Chandigarh Police Dismantle Interstate Arms Supply Network, Eight Arrested
Crime – In a decisive move against organised criminal activity, the Chandigarh Police have uncovered an interstate illegal arms supply chain connected to the infamous Lucky Patial-Bambhia gang. The operation led to the arrest of eight individuals and the recovery of a large number of firearms and ammunition, marking a significant step in curbing the spread of illegal weapons in the region.
Coordinated Operation Across Multiple Locations
The crackdown was initiated following credible intelligence inputs received by the police. Acting swiftly, special teams under senior officers conducted coordinated raids across the tri-city area. The focus was on individuals suspected of sourcing firearms from states such as Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh and distributing them locally.
Officials stated that the Operation Cell played a central role in planning and executing the raids. The effort reflects a broader strategy of using intelligence-based policing to target organised crime networks operating across state boundaries.
Key Arrests and Weapon Recoveries
The first breakthrough came on April 14 with the arrest of two suspects, Rahul, also known as Rally, and Monu, alias Kandu, both residents of Manimajra. Police recovered multiple illegal weapons from their possession, including semi-automatic pistols and a country-made firearm, along with live ammunition.
During questioning, investigators found that both individuals had been actively supplying weapons to criminal groups involved in serious offences such as murder, robbery, and extortion across Chandigarh, Punjab, and Haryana. Their role in the network was considered crucial, as they acted as intermediaries between suppliers and local gangs.
Links to Organised Gang Network
Further interrogation of the accused revealed their connections with members associated with the Lucky Patial-Bambhia gang. Based on this information, police arrested another suspect, Govind alias Gaurav, and recovered a firearm and ammunition from him.
Authorities indicated that these weapons were not only used in crimes but also to create fear among residents and establish territorial control. This pattern of intimidation has been a growing concern in several urban pockets of the region.
Expansion of Investigation Uncovers Wider Network
As the investigation progressed, more individuals linked to the network were identified and apprehended in separate operations. Among them were Aman alias Batak and Sanju alias Kancha, both found carrying country-made pistols and live cartridges.
In one encounter near Sector 25, another accused, Mukesh alias Gullu, allegedly opened fire at a police team. He was injured during the exchange and later admitted to a government hospital. Police recovered a .32 bore pistol and ammunition from him.
In a separate late-night operation, two more suspects, Gurdeep Singh and Monu Jaiswal, were arrested with illegal firearms, further exposing the depth of the network.
Significant Seizure and Ongoing Probe
Police officials confirmed that the group operated as a structured interstate network, sourcing weapons through illegal channels and distributing them to criminal elements across the tri-city region. In total, authorities seized 14 pistols and 15 live cartridges during the operation.
Several of those arrested have a history of criminal activity, including violations under the Arms Act and involvement in violent crimes. Investigators are now working to identify additional links and trace the full extent of the network.
Commitment to Public Safety
Chandigarh Police have reiterated their commitment to tackling illegal arms circulation and ensuring public safety. Officials emphasised that such intelligence-driven operations will continue in order to dismantle organised crime structures and prevent future incidents.
The recent crackdown is being viewed as a major success in ongoing efforts to control the illegal arms trade and strengthen law enforcement presence across the region.