On Friday, the Special Crime Unit of the Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police conducted a significant operation that led to the seizure of six semi-automatic pistols and a quantity of ammunition while foiling an alleged illegal weapons deal in the city. The operation was carried out following specific intelligence inputs that alerted authorities to a weapons transaction underway in the Chandaka area of Bhubaneswar. Acting on these inputs, the unit closely monitored the activities of the suspect before intervening to prevent the sale.

The arrested accused has been identified as Manoj Kumar Mallick, also known as Pappu, a resident of Jajpur district. Police sources revealed that Mallick is a repeat offender who had previously been apprehended in a similar case but allegedly resumed criminal activities upon his release. During the operation, the police also recovered mobile phones that are expected to aid further investigation.

Speaking on the case, Bhubaneswar Police Commissioner S. Devdutta Singh confirmed the arrest and said, “Manoj Kumar Mallick from Jajpur district has been taken into custody, and six semi-automatic pistols, 10 rounds of ammunition, and mobile phones have been recovered. Investigation and interrogation are ongoing to determine the intended recipients of these weapons and uncover any broader criminal connections.”

Preliminary findings suggest that the firearms were sourced from Bihar and were being transported to Bhubaneswar for illicit sale. Authorities are now probing the supply chain to identify other individuals involved and to ascertain whether the racket has links to a larger criminal network. The Special Crime Unit has emphasized that strict vigilance will continue on illegal arms trafficking and related criminal activities in and around the state capital.

This operation highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement in Odisha to curb the flow of illegal firearms and ensure the safety and security of the public.