Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Jun 6: In a major operation, the Special Task Force (STF) of the West Bengal Police on Saturday recovered a significant cache of firearms and ammunition allegedly concealed in a pond linked to a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader in Sandeshkhali, located in North 24 Parganas district.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, STF personnel launched a search operation in the area during the early hours of the day. During the raid, officers discovered multiple weapons and cartridges hidden inside the pond. However, before the police could take action against them, the pond's owner, former TMC regional president Robin Das, and his brother Gopal Das reportedly fled the locality.

Following the recovery, STF teams conducted extensive searches at the residence of the Das brothers and surrounding locations. The two are believed to have close ties with jailed TMC strongman Sheikh Shahjahan. Investigators reportedly seized additional arms during the operation, raising concerns about the possible use of the weapons to incite violence and disturb law and order in the region.

The discovery triggered widespread attention in Sandeshkhali, with local residents gathering in large numbers near the search site. Personnel from the central security forces assisted STF officials throughout the operation.

Authorities have continued combing the area for further evidence while simultaneously launching a manhunt to trace the absconding brothers. Robin Das and Gopal Das have previously faced allegations of intimidation and harassment of local residents, including workers associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The incident has intensified the political confrontation between the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress. Reacting sharply to the recovery, BJP MLA Sajal Ghosh mocked the situation, saying that while ponds are traditionally known for producing fish, only under the Trinamool's rule could firearms, bullets and bombs emerge from them.

Escalating his criticism, Ghosh alleged that the seizure once again exposed what he described as the deteriorating law-and-order situation in West Bengal. He further claimed that the recovered weapons could have been used against ordinary citizens and demanded strict legal action against those involved, urging authorities to ensure that the accused remain behind bars once arrested.