In response to escalating gun violence in Delhi, the Delhi Police launched a strategic crackdown titled “Operation Eagle” in October. This extensive investigation led to the arrest of 18 individuals linked to a sprawling gun trafficking network, as reported by PTI.
Background of ‘Operation Eagle’
Special Commissioner of Police (Crime) Devesh Chandra Srivastava explained that “Operation Eagle” aimed to dismantle the networks of illegal gun suppliers operating within Delhi and the neighbouring National Capital Region (NCR). The initiative was sparked by recent incidents involving firearms, underscoring the urgency to curb gun-related crimes across the capital.
Initial Arrests and Seizures
The operation gained momentum following a significant raid in Ghazipur, where two suspects, Arshad and Mohammad Suleman, were apprehended. During the raid, officers confiscated a firearm, three live rounds, three knives, and a stolen Hyundai i20. The suspects admitted to obtaining their weapons from an individual named Anuj, also known as Moni, from Patparganj. This initial breakthrough provided key intelligence, leading the police to further dismantle the illegal gun distribution network.
Widening the Crackdown
Based on Arshad’s confession, police successfully located and apprehended Moni, whose arrest helped authorities trace other members of the syndicate, unravelling the entire gun smuggling operation in the Delhi NCR area. “Operation Eagle” ultimately resulted in the seizure of eight country-made pistols, four semi-automatic pistols, one country-made rifle, three knives, and 33 live rounds, making it a significant operation in terms of confiscated arms and ammunition.
Coordinated Police Action and Gang Connections
To take down the syndicate effectively, Delhi Police organized multiple teams, conducting raids across several locations. These efforts led to the arrest of 16 additional suspects associated with the “Madan gang,” a criminal group that allegedly sourced and distributed illegal firearms. Notably, the gang’s leader, Madan, was reportedly managing operations from inside Dasna Jail in Ghaziabad, maintaining influence over his network despite being imprisoned.
Criminal Background of the Accused
According to authorities, those arrested were involved in over 50 criminal cases, including attempted murder, dacoity (violent robbery), extortion, theft, and burglary. Many of them had prior records under the Arms Act and the Gangster Act. Police officials shared that the extensive criminal backgrounds of the suspects highlighted the network’s high-risk profile and reinforced the importance of the operation.
Uncovering the Syndicate’s Network
During questioning, the suspects revealed information about other accomplices involved in procuring and selling weapons to various criminals throughout Delhi and NCR. To neutralize the syndicate, the police formed specialized teams to track down each member involved in the distribution network. The coordinated efforts led to the successful breakdown of this inter-state gun-running operation.
Through “Operation Eagle,” Delhi Police not only disrupted a major gun supply chain but also took a critical step toward reducing illegal firearm circulation in Delhi and its surrounding areas. This high-profile operation underscores the authorities’ commitment to enhancing public safety by actively combating organized crime and gun violence.
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