Tripura police recover three pistols in Sepahijala crackdown on extortion gangs after arrest of key accused including fugitive gangster. Investigation intensifies to dismantle criminal networks spreading terror and extortion in Bishalgarh Murabari area.
A focused crackdown on extortion networks in Tripura’s Sepahijala district has resulted in the recovery of three illegal pistols, marking a significant step in efforts to dismantle organized crime in the region. Police operations intensified in the Murabari area of Bishalgarh following recent arrests tied to an extortion racket that had allegedly spread fear among local residents and business owners.
According to police officials, the firearm recovery comes shortly after the arrest of fugitive gangster Ranabir Debnath and his associate Parimal Das. Authorities confirmed that both individuals were linked to multiple extortion cases registered earlier this year. The arrests were made as part of an ongoing investigation into criminal syndicates believed to be orchestrating coordinated extortion and intimidation campaigns.
Superintendent of Police Bijoy Debbarma stated that two separate extortion cases were registered on March 21 based on complaints filed by Anup Saha and Chandan Debnath. Following these complaints, police launched a targeted operation, leading to the arrest of several suspects, including Debnath, who had been absconding since the cases were filed.
Debbarma revealed that during interrogation, critical information emerged that helped authorities uncover the location of illegal firearms. Two pistols were recovered based on disclosures made by Parimal Das, while another weapon was seized following inputs from Ranabir Debnath. The recovery of these weapons is seen as a major breakthrough in weakening the operational capacity of the extortion network.
Investigators also confirmed that Parimal Das was named in one of the First Information Reports related to the extortion complaint filed by Chandan Debnath. Earlier, another accused, identified as Ranabir Sarkar, had been arrested and is believed to be the alleged mastermind behind the network. Police allege that Sarkar had activated multiple gangs in the region to carry out extortion and other criminal activities.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying additional members of the syndicate and dismantling the broader criminal infrastructure. Police officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and restoring confidence among residents affected by these activities.
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Meanwhile, officials have also noted attempts by certain groups to portray Ranabir Debnath as mentally unstable in an apparent effort to dilute the seriousness of the charges. Investigators have not substantiated these claims and continue to pursue the case based on available evidence.
The latest developments highlight a determined push by law enforcement agencies to curb organized crime in Sepahijala district, with further arrests and recoveries expected as the probe progresses.
