NEW DELHI: In a breakthrough against transnational criminal networks, the Delhi Police Crime Branch dismantled a major international arms trafficking module with direct links to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
The operation led to the arrest of four key operatives of the interstate arms smuggler's module and the seizure of a substantial cache of sophisticated foreign-made weapons intended for illicit distribution.
The operation was conducted by a team led by DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav.
Cops confirmed that the weapons were smuggled into the country from Pakistan using drones, indicating a highly modern and concerning method of cross-border infiltration.
Also read | Chhattisgarh ATS busts Islamic State module: Pakistan-based handlers targeted teenagers via Instagram accounts "The seized consignment includes 10 high-end foreign-made semi-automatic pistols along with 92 live cartridges," Special CP (Crime) Devesh Srivastava said.
Of particular concern among the recovered firearms is the Turkiye-made PX-5.7 pistol, a high-end weapon known to be exclusively utilised by special forces, underscoring the serious nature and intended use of the trafficked arms.
The module was also found to be smuggling the China-made PX-3 pistol, further highlighting the diverse international origins of the weaponry being channelled by the ISI-linked network.
"The arrests and seizures are expected to provide critical leads in tracing the full extent of the network's operations, its forward and backward linkages, and the individuals or groups who were the ultimate intended recipients of these deadly weapons," Joint CP Surendra Kumar said.
The successful operation marks a major blow to the cross-border smuggling of sophisticated firearms intended to destabilise the region.
Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here
Raj Shekhar Jha is a journalist for the Times of India with over ...
Read MoreRaj Shekhar Jha is a journalist for the Times of India with over a decade of experience in reporting on national security, terrorism, crime and prisons.
Read LessExpand