Crackdown on Illegal Arms Trade in Kolkata Leads to Arrest

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 17, 2025, Kolkata : With elections still nearly a year away, concerns over illegal arms trade are escalating in Kolkata. In a major breakthrough, the Special Task Force (STF) of the Railway Police made a significant arrest on Monday, uncovering an arms smuggling operation in the heart of the city.

Acting on intelligence inputs, STF officials apprehended a suspect near Sealdah station at approximately 5:30 AM. The individual, identified as Hasan Sheikh, a resident of Malda, was found in possession of six firearms and eight rounds of ammunition. Authorities confirmed that the weapons were being transported illegally, raising alarms over potential threats to public safety.

According to officials, Hasan Sheikh had traveled aboard the Hat Bazar Express and was intercepted upon his arrival at Sealdah station. A routine baggage check led to the discovery of the concealed firearms and ammunition. Following the seizure, law enforcement personnel immediately took him into custody for further investigation.

Preliminary inquiries suggest that the weapons originated from Bihar, specifically Mansingh, and were transported to Kolkata via Kaliachak in Malda. Investigators are now working to trace the supply chain and identify any larger networks involved in the illicit arms trade.

STF officials have initiated legal proceedings and are preparing a detailed seizure report near Sealdah station. The accused is currently being interrogated to uncover potential connections and ascertain the final destination of the smuggled arms. Authorities remain vigilant and have intensified surveillance to prevent further instances of illegal arms trafficking in the city. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are anticipated as law enforcement agencies continue their crackdown on unlawful activities.