New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday conducted large-scale search operations in Haryana, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh as part of its probe into an illegal ammunition trafficking network. The syndicate is suspected of sourcing weapons from Uttar Pradesh and supplying them to different regions of Bihar.
According to NIA officials, coordinated raids were carried out at 22 locations linked to suspects accused of procuring and transporting illicit ammunition. These searches fall under case number RC-01/2025/NIA/PAT, which was registered earlier this year to dismantle what investigators believe is a structured criminal network.
Teams from the NIA, assisted by local police, searched homes, business premises and storage units used by individuals allegedly connected to the trafficking operation. Raids began early Thursday and continued through the day.
Officials said digital devices, documents, financial records and other potentially incriminating materials have been seized for examination. Preliminary findings indicate that the group may have ties to illegal suppliers, intermediaries and arms handlers operating across state borders, raising concerns about an expanding underground ammunition supply chain servicing criminal groups in Bihar.
The NIA is also investigating whether the network had any links to extremist or insurgent outfits, though there has been no confirmation so far.
A senior official said the searches aim to gather evidence, trace financial transactions and identify every individual involved, including those financing or facilitating the movement of illegal ammunition.
