Bhubaneswar: In a major crackdown on the illegal firearms trade, the Special Crime Unit (SCU) of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack police seized ten semi-automatic pistols along with 18 rounds of live ammunition on Saturday. The operation also led to the arrest of a key suspect, demonstrating the police’s unwavering commitment to curbing unlawful arms trafficking in the region.
The accused has been identified as Shaikh Nadim (31) a resident of Itatikiri village under Krushna Nandapur police station in Jagatsinghpur district.
According to an official press release, the operation was initiated following a detailed intelligence input. Over the past month, the SCU had kept the suspect under close surveillance as he attempted to supply sophisticated firearms to local dealers in Bhubaneswar.
Acting on fresh information early Saturday morning, a team led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Anup Kanungo apprehended Nadim near Dhauli Junction at approximately 5 am. He was intercepted while riding his red Pulsar motorcycle from the Puri side.
Upon arrest, police recovered a blue rucksack containing ten semi-automatic pistols and 18 rounds of live ammunition. Additionally, 10 magazines, a mobile phone, and the motorcycle used by the accused were seized. The police stated that Nadim intended to distribute the weapons to customers across Bhubaneswar.
A case has been registered under Sections 25(1A) and 25(1B) of the Arms Act, 1959 (Special Crime Unit P.S. Case No. 7 dated 27.09.2025).
Nadim is currently in police custody and is undergoing interrogation to uncover further details about the illegal arms network and its wider connections. Police confirmed his involvement in five other criminal cases, which are under verification.
This successful operation marks a significant step forward in the Bhubaneswar police’s ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal firearms syndicates and ensure public safety.
The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to illegal arms trafficking.
Citizens can contact the Special Crime Unit at 0674-2916383 between 10 am and 8 pm. The police assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
