Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, May 6: A councillor of the All India Trinamool Congress has been arrested in connection with an Arms Act case after failing to submit valid documentation related to ammunition found in his possession last year.

The accused, Amirul Sheikh Islam, a councillor from ward number 14 of Pujali Municipality in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, was taken into custody under provisions of the Arms Act, 1959 following a renewed investigation.

The case dates back to September 21, 2025, when Islam was detained at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport after security scanners detected a magazine and six rounds of ammunition in his baggage while he was attempting to board a flight.

At the time, he reportedly claimed that he possessed valid firearm licences and authorisation documents, stating he would produce them later before law enforcement authorities. However, police said he repeatedly failed to submit the required papers despite being given sufficient time.

Officials confirmed that a fresh FIR was registered after the lapse in compliance, leading to a renewed probe and subsequent arrest on Wednesday.

According to an investigating officer, the authorities proceeded with the arrest after concluding that the councillor had not cooperated with documentation requirements necessary to verify lawful possession of the ammunition.

The incident had earlier raised questions after Islam was initially allowed to leave the airport based on his verbal assurance. Critics had alleged possible preferential treatment due to his political position within a municipality under the Diamond Harbour subdivision.

Police, however, have now moved forward with formal action, stating that the investigation was reopened and pursued strictly based on procedural requirements under the Arms Act.