Youth arrested with pistol and live ammunition at Agartala Railway Station by GRP. Arms smuggling network suspected ahead of Tripura ADC elections. Investigation underway to trace illegal supply chain and strengthen railway security measures.
In a security operation, personnel of the Government Railway Police (GRP) arrested a youth at Agartala Railway Station on Tuesday morning after recovering a pistol and live ammunition during a routine search.
According to official sources, the GRP team stationed at the railway hub, under the jurisdiction of Government Railway Police Station Agartala, was conducting regular surveillance checks when the youth’s suspicious behaviour drew attention. Upon a detailed frisking, officers recovered one pistol, two magazines, and two rounds of live ammunition concealed in his possession.
The accused was immediately taken into custody and shifted to the GRP police station for interrogation. During preliminary questioning, he identified himself as Subrata Dutta, a resident of Madhupur. Police sources revealed that the accused allegedly confessed to transporting the firearm via train from Bilar, with the intention of illegally selling it in the Madhupur area.
Officer-in-Charge Raju Bhowmik promptly informed senior officials following the seizure. A forensic team was subsequently called in to examine the weapon and collect crucial evidence that could help trace its origin and usage history.
Authorities confirmed that the accused will be produced before a local court on Wednesday, with investigators seeking police remand to further probe the supply chain and identify potential buyers or accomplices involved in the illegal arms trade.
This incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over an active arms smuggling network operating through Tripura, particularly ahead of the upcoming Tripura ADC Elections. Security agencies suspect that railway routes, especially through Agartala, are increasingly being used as corridors for trafficking illegal arms and narcotics into the state.
Sources within law enforcement indicated that both arms and drug trafficking activities are being facilitated through the railway station, possibly with the involvement of local intermediaries who play a crucial role in the distribution network. The arrest has intensified calls for heightened vigilance and stricter monitoring at transit points.
Officials stressed the need for coordinated efforts between the GRP and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to curb the rising menace. Enhanced surveillance systems, intelligence-sharing, and frequent checks are being considered essential to dismantle such networks.
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Further investigation is currently underway to uncover the larger conspiracy and identify other individuals linked to the illegal arms trade. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining strict security protocols to ensure public safety and prevent the misuse of railway infrastructure for criminal activities.
