Navi Mumbai, Dec 31: Amid heightened security measures ahead of the upcoming municipal elections, the Panvel City Police arrested a 36-year-old man for possessing an illegal firearm and live ammunition near Panvel railway station on Saturday night. Police seized one pistol and six live cartridges from the accused.
Accused Identified as Sanpada Resident
The arrested accused has been identified as Ananth Adhimulam Padayachi (36), a resident of Sanpada. Acting on specific intelligence that a person would arrive near the railway station to sell a pistol and ammunition, the Panvel City Police laid a trap in the area.
Police Team Conducts Planned Operation
Under the guidance of Senior Police Inspector Nitin Thakare, a team comprising Assistant Police Inspector Sachin Powar, Sub-Inspector Sunil Wagh, Assistant Sub-Inspector Kiran Raut and other personnel conducted the operation. Around 10.30 pm, the accused was spotted behaving suspiciously near the station and was detained for questioning.
Pistol and Live Cartridges Recovered
During a personal search, police recovered a pistol and six rounds of live ammunition from his possession. He was immediately arrested for illegally possessing a firearm, and the weapon and ammunition were seized.
Police Probing Source of Weapon
“Based on credible inputs, our team conducted a planned operation and intercepted the accused with an illegal firearm and live cartridges. We are investigating the source of the weapon and identifying to whom it was meant to be sold,” said Senior Police Inspector Nitin Thakare.
Police said further investigation is underway to ascertain where the accused procured the firearm and whether it was intended for use in any criminal activity.
Part of Special Drive Ahead of Civic Polls
The police action forms part of a special drive launched by the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate ahead of the Municipal Elections 2025–26 to maintain law and order and ensure free and fear-free elections.
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Officials said strict action is being taken against history-sheeters, absconding and wanted accused, and those involved in illegal arms, drugs and illicit liquor trade, to prevent any untoward incidents during the election period.
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