PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, July 2: In a swift and commendable operation, the East Singhbhum police have cracked the sensational armed robbery case that took place on the night of June 30, in Chakulia under the Chakulia police station limits.
Within just 24 hours, two notorious criminals were arrested, and most of the stolen gold and cash were recovered.
Armed with a country-made pistol and knives, three assailants had stormed into the residence of 70-year-old Arun Kumar Nandi, located at Purana Bazaar, Chakulia, and looted more than 1.5 kilograms of gold ornaments along with Rs 1.55 lakh in cash. The criminals had threatened the elderly man and his family at gunpoint before fleeing the scene.
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Joint Jharkhand–Bengal Operation Leads to Arrests
The incident triggered an immediate response from senior police officials. A special team was formed under the leadership of the Ghatshila Sub-Divisional Police Officer, with support from the Jamboni Police Station in West Bengal.
Acting on a tip-off, police learned that three suspects on a motorcycle were headed toward Bara Banshil village under Jamboni PS in West Bengal.
A prompt joint operation led to a barricade on the connecting road, where the suspects attempted to flee on foot.
Police managed to nab two of them on the spot, while the third escaped into the darkness. A manhunt was on.
The arrested accused included Mohammad Rafiq (48 years), who is from Chandil in Seraikela-Kharsawan district.
The second accused Niranjan Gaur is a resident of Bagbera Traffic Colony.
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Seizures Made
The police recovered a large cache of stolen goods, including 1.34 kg of gold ornaments (including: 142 ladies’ rings (264.70g), 14 pairs of earrings, 105 mangalsutras, 28 chains, 132 lockets, 8 necklaces, 54 men’s rings, baby jewellery, and more), ₹1.55 lakh in cash, a Super Splendor bike, a keypad phone, a knife, and a country-made pistol with one live round.
The valuables were concealed in a green-black checkered bag. The two accused cooperated during interrogation, helping police trace the hidden items.
During interrogation, Mohammad Rafiq revealed the location of the firearm, while Niranjan Gaur led police to the gold ornaments and other items.
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Organised Gang Suspected
The investigation suggests this robbery was executed by a well-organised gang operating across Jharkhand and West Bengal.
The robbery had instilled fear among the local residents, especially the elderly living alone. However, the rapid breakthrough has restored public confidence and a sense of security in Chakulia.
This case has not only highlighted the efficiency of the local police but also showcased effective cross-border policing.
