ASANSOL: In a successful operation against an inter-state illegal arms smuggling racket, the Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal has arrested two more smugglers from Bihar and Jharkhand. Following 17 days of intensive investigation, Ganesh Rana was arrested from Hazaribagh in Jharkhand and Pawan Kumar Singh from Jamui in Bihar. Police sources stated that during this operation, a huge cache of arms along with approximately Rs 4 lakh in cash was also recovered. Based on secret information, STF personnel conducted raids at multiple locations in Bihar and Jharkhand. Ganesh Rana was arrested from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, while Pawan Kumar Singh was caught from Jamui, Bihar. Investigators stated that more weapons were recovered during the operation.
However, investigators are trying to identify other individuals involved in the racket, trace the source of the weapons, and determine where they were supposed to be delivered. Investigating officers believe that the recovered Rs 4 lakh is part of the proceeds from the sale of smuggled weapons.
On September 25, the STF arrested Mohammad Farhan alias Musan in Durgapur. A search of his hideout led to the recovery of two pistols, two magazines, and 20 cartridges. Following this, an investigation was launched to identify the illegal arms suppliers, smuggling routes, and alleged masterminds behind the operation. During interrogation, Farhan named Shahnawaz Alam alias Guddu, who was later arrested during a raid in Munger, Bihar. Police sources said several other individuals allegedly involved in the racket were also identified during the investigation.
