Illegal Pistol Factory Busted in Meerut: SWAT Team Arrests Two, Seizes Weapons

Meerut, Uttar Pradesh: Meerut police have uncovered an illegal arms supply operation, raiding a clandestine pistol factory in the Taj Garden area. Two accused have been arrested, and a significant cache of firearms, semi-finished weapons, and manufacturing equipment has been seized.

Police Action and Arrests
According to SSP/DIG Dr. Vipin Tada, a tip-off from an informant revealed that illegal firearms were being manufactured in a rented warehouse in Lohia Nagar. Acting on this information, the SWAT team, along with Lohia Nagar police, conducted a joint operation, exposing the factory.

During the raid, Amir, son of Noor Ilahi, a resident of Noor Wali Gali, Lisari Gate, was caught making illegal weapons on-site. Police recovered five 32-bore pistols, two finished magazines, 99 semi-finished magazines, weapons-making tools, and ₹6,500 in cash. Another accused, Rihan, son of Sagar, resident of D-Block Summer Colony, was arrested by Khar Khoda police with two illegal pistols, ₹3,500 in cash, and a motorcycle.

Modus Operandi and Profits
Interrogation revealed that the accused had rented the warehouse to operate the factory, sourcing raw materials from various locations. Each pistol took approximately five days and ₹5,000 to manufacture, with resale prices ranging between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000. The finished weapons were reportedly supplied to associates Amir (son of Rahimuddin), Amjad alias Bobby, and Sajid Ansari. Profits were shared among the accused, including a cut for the warehouse owner.

Criminal Background
The main accused, Amir, faces multiple cases under the Arms Act and Gangster Act at Lohia Nagar and Lisari Gate police stations. Rihan was previously imprisoned in 2022 for involvement in another illegal arms manufacturing case.

Police Statement
SSP Vipin Tada confirmed that additional suspects have been identified, including the warehouse owner Irfan. Police are continuing efforts to dismantle the illegal arms production and supply network in the city.