Tripura: Airport Police seize Pistol, 14 live cartridges; One arrested in Bhagalpur

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A major police operation based on specific intelligence inputs led to the seizure of a factory-made pistol, a magazine, 14 rounds of live ammunition and other firearm-related materials from a residence in Bhagalpur under Airport Police Station, resulting in the arrest of one person and triggering concern in the area.

The accused, identified as Santosh Biswas, a resident of the Bhagalpur Dargah locality, was taken into custody following a special late-night raid conducted by Airport Police. Acting on a tip-off regarding the presence of suspected illegal items at the residence, police secured the premises in the presence of witnesses before carrying out a detailed search.

Although the contraband originally mentioned in the intelligence input was not recovered, the search led to the discovery of a factory-made pistol, 14 live cartridges, a magazine, a pistol pouch and firearm-cleaning oil, among other articles. All recovered items were seized and Biswas was arrested for allegedly possessing the weapon and ammunition.

The operation was led by Officer-in-Charge of Airport Police Station N. Gopal Deb and SDPO (NCC) Subrata Barman. A forensic team was also deployed to examine the seized materials and assist in the investigation. Later, the recovered firearm and ammunition were formally processed in the presence of an Executive Magistrate.

Addressing the media, SDPO Subrata Barman said a case had been registered under the relevant provisions of the Arms Act and an investigation was underway to determine how the accused obtained the weapon and ammunition. Police officials stated that no previous criminal case against Biswas had been registered at Airport Police Station.

The recovery has assumed significance as the accused's residence is located near the international border, prompting investigators to examine the possible source of the firearm and whether it has links to any wider illegal network or criminal activity. Police said further details are expected to emerge as the probe progresses.

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