In a significant early morning operation, Tirunelveli city police arrested five people and seized a country-made gun along with ammunition. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday near Melapalayam.
Police Action Leads to Arrests
A police team conducted a vehicle check on the Melapalayam-Ambasamudram road around 3.30 am. They stopped a two-wheeler driven by Ameer Suhail, aged 25, based on suspicion.
Discovery of Illegal Arms
Upon checking Ameer's bag, officers found a country-made gun concealed inside. The weapon had four rounds of 7.65mm bullets. Police immediately secured Ameer and began interrogation.
Confession and Further Arrests
A senior police official stated that Ameer confessed during questioning. He revealed he purchased the gun from Rathnabalan, aged 40. Rathnabalan had acquired the firearm from north India.
Ameer attempted to sell the gun to a history sheeter in Dindigul. This led to his arrest. Police also arrested Muzamil Murshid, aged 21, in connection with the case.
Additional Suspects Apprehended
Tirunelveli city police extended their investigation. They arrested two more individuals: Shahul Hameed, aged 26, and Sikandar Sheikh Wali, aged 25. All arrests relate to the same incident.
Legal Proceedings Initiated
Melapalayam police registered a formal case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act. Authorities are continuing their probe into the illegal arms trade network.
This operation highlights police vigilance in curbing weapon smuggling in the region. The early morning timing proved crucial in intercepting the suspects.
