The Delhi Police Crime Branch apprehended Harshpal Singh, also known as Rubal, in connection with a transnational arms trafficking and terror group. A sophisticated weapon was seized from his possession, marking a significant development in the investigation into an international arms smuggling network with alleged ties to terrorism. Harshpal Singh is accused of being part of an organized crime syndicate and is facing charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Arms Act.
On February 11, a suspect under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) was granted bail by the Delhi High Court due to delays in his legal proceedings. This recent arrest is part of a series of operations by the Crime Branch targeting illegal arms suppliers and networks. In a previous crackdown on April 7, two alleged arms suppliers, Imran and Kamran, were arrested at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
The arrested individuals were associated with the same transnational network, and two weapons along with 11 live cartridges were confiscated from them. Investigations revealed a well-structured cross-border network involved in the procurement, transit, and distribution of illegal arms. The funds generated from these activities were allegedly used to support terrorist operations.
The Crime Branch had previously dismantled a significant international arms smuggling network on March 25, resulting in the arrest of 10 key operatives. A large cache of foreign-manufactured firearms intended for criminal syndicates in India was seized. The investigation uncovered deep-rooted connections across Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, with the primary supply route originating in Pakistan.
The seized weapons included high-grade firearms like PX-5.7 pistols and internationally recognized brands such as Stoeger, Shadow CZ, Beretta, Taurus, and Walther. The discovery of a state-of-the-art submachine gun from the Czech Republic highlighted the sophisticated nature of the criminal module. The arms were being supplied to criminal groups in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, and neighboring regions, posing a significant security concern.
