In a major crackdown on illegal explosives and firearms, the West Bengal Police have seized a massive cache of explosive materials and 21 illegal firearms in two separate operations in Birbhum and Paschim Bardhaman districts.
West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari shared details of the operations in a post on X, describing the seizures as a significant breakthrough in efforts to safeguard public peace and security.
In a major breakthrough safeguarding public peace and security, the Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police, in close coordination with local Police units, has successfully carried out two decisive operations, seizing massive caches of illegal explosives and firearms. Acting on precise intelligence, our STF raided an illegal setup at Barua Gopalpur under Murarai PS, Birbhum district, recovering a staggering 1,150 gelatin sticks, 989 detonators and 9,900 meters of detonating cord. Two individuals have been detained in connection with the seizure. In another targeted operation in Pandabeswar under the Asansol–Durgapur Police Commissionerate, 21 illegal firearms including 6 long muskets, 4 pistols (7 mm) and 11 pipe guns along with 65 rounds of live ammunition were seized from a notorious criminal linked to illicit coal networks. Our Government maintains an uncompromising Zero Tolerance policy against criminal syndicates, illegal weapons and any anti-social elements attempting to threaten the peace and harmony of West Bengal. Stringent legal action will be pursued to ensure that every individual involved faces the full force of the law. I commend the Officers and personnel of the @WBPolice and STF for their sharp vigilance, swift coordination and relentless dedication to keeping our State safe and secure.
— Suvendu Adhikari (@SuvenduWB) November 5, 2026
According to Adhikari, the first operation was conducted by the Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police, in coordination with local police personnel, at Barua Gopalpur village under Murarai Police Station in Birbhum district.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the police raided an illegal setup and recovered 1,150 gelatin sticks, 989 detonators and 9,900 metres of detonating cord. Two individuals have been detained in connection with the seizure.
In a separate operation in Pandabeswar under the Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissionerate, the authorities seized 21 illegal firearms and 65 rounds of live ammunition from an alleged criminal linked to illicit coal networks.
The weapons recovered included six long muskets, four 7 mm pistols and 11 country-made pipe guns.
The two operations have brought to light the availability of substantial quantities of explosives and illegal firearms in different parts of West Bengal, raising concerns over the networks involved in their storage and circulation.
Reacting to the seizures, Adhikari said the state government maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards criminal syndicates, illegal weapons and anti-social elements threatening public order.
He also commended the West Bengal Police and STF personnel for their vigilance, coordination and swift action, adding that stringent legal action would be pursued against everyone involved.
The seizures mark a significant enforcement action against illegal explosives and arms networks, particularly in areas where illicit activities, including illegal coal operations, have been reported.
