Kolkata: The Special Task Force (STF) of Kolkata police arrested Chand Ali Sheikh, a major illegal arms dealer, at his hideout in Burdwan on Tuesday night. Sheikh's arrest follows the detention of eight criminals in Anandapur area two weeks ago, who were caught planning a robbery. During interrogation, they identified Sheikh as their primary weapons supplier.
According to STF officials, Sheikh operated a sophisticated distribution network, sourcing firearms from multiple dealers in Bihar and selling them for Rs 15,000-20,000 per piece.
The weapons were then distributed across various districts, including Murshidabad and Birbhum, through a complex chain of intermediaries. "We are investigating whether these weapons were solely supplied to criminal groups or if they reached terrorist sleeper cells," said a senior STF official.
Investigators are analysing Sheikh's mobile phone records to identify his clientele. "We are working closely with Bihar police to identify and apprehend other members of this network," said a senior officer. Authorities have registered cases under various sections of the Arms Act and are expected to produce Sheikh before the local court on Thursday.