Gorakhpur: The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) has successfully disrupted a suspected illegal firearms operation based in Gorakhpur, arresting a local figure and confiscating a substantial cache of guns and ammunition.
Detention of the alleged middleman
The individual taken into custody is identified as Ramesh Dutt Tripathi, also known by the aliases Bolbam, Abhishek Pandit and Chhotu. He originates from Vinayak Nagar in the Yamunanagar area, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Naini police station in Prayagraj. STF operatives intercepted him while he was reportedly waiting for a contact in the Siktaur locality.
Seized material
During the operation, officers recovered multiple firearms, a stockpile of ammunition, and the suspect’s mobile device. All items have been placed under police custody, and investigators are now tracing the origin of the weapons and identifying potential end‑users.
Broader inquiry in progress
Initial interrogations suggest links that extend beyond Uttar Pradesh’s borders. The STF is now probing Tripathi’s alleged associates, including a person named Rajeev Yadav, to map the full scope of the illicit network.
Authorities are also examining whether similar consignments of weapons have previously entered Gorakhpur or neighboring districts, and whether additional operatives were involved.
Legal actions
CO Cantt Arun Kumar S. confirmed that a case under the Arms Act has been filed against Tripathi. Further legal measures will depend on the evidence uncovered during questioning and the ongoing investigation.
Next steps
The STF continues to verify the source of the seized arms and to identify possible recipients. Officials have warned that more arrests may follow as the probe unfolds.
