A major illegal firearms operation has been uncovered in the Gayeshpur area of Sadar upazila in Pabna, where detectives arrested three individuals and recovered a cache of weapons along with equipment used for manufacturing and repairing arms.
The operation was conducted by the District Detective Branch (DB) of police following intelligence reports indicating the presence of an organised group engaged in the illegal storage, repair, production, and trade of firearms. Acting on this information, a DB team carried out a targeted raid on Saturday afternoon in Kumilli village.
During the raid, one suspect—identified as 60-year-old Afzal Hossain—attempted to flee but was apprehended at the scene. Two other individuals were also detained, although their identities were not immediately confirmed by the authorities.
Following Afzal Hossain’s initial questioning, police conducted a search of his residence, where they recovered one single-barrel gun, two foreign-made pistols, and four rounds of ammunition. In addition, a range of firearm components and manufacturing tools were seized, suggesting involvement in weapon fabrication and repair activities.
Further searches were carried out at a shop located in the Bora Haat market on Rukpotha Road in Pabna town, which is believed to be linked to the accused. There, police recovered additional firearm parts, spent cartridges, bullet casings, and a drilling machine commonly used for metal perforation. Law enforcement officials suspect that the premises were being used for illegal firearm repair and possibly the assembly of weapons.
According to the DB police, Afzal Hossain failed to produce valid documentation for the recovered weapons and equipment during preliminary interrogation. Although he held a trade licence for sewing machine and air gun repair services, investigators believe his actual activities extended to illegal firearms modification and trading.
A case has been filed under the Arms Act, and all three detainees have been handed over to the local police station for further legal proceedings. Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing to determine whether additional members are involved in the network.
Recovered Items Summary
| Serial No. | Item Description | Quantity / Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Single-barrel gun | 1 piece |
| 2 | Foreign-made pistols | 2 pieces |
| 3 | Ammunition rounds | 4 rounds |
| 4 | Firing pins | Multiple |
| 5 | Springs and internal parts | Various |
| 6 | Gun barrels and casings | Multiple |
| 7 | Bullet casings and shells | Various |
| 8 | Drilling machine | 1 unit |
Police officials have described the operation as a significant breakthrough, stating that it has exposed a crucial segment of an illegal arms production and distribution network. Further investigations are expected to reveal the full extent of the syndicate’s activities and its wider connections.