RAJ KUMAR
Ranchi, Dec.11: A social media platform is being used for the marketing of illegal firearms.
This was reflected as a screenshot of a Facebook post of ‘Ranchi city’ reached before this correspondent which said, “if anyone requires a country made katta, pistol, revolver can call or whatsapp on 7099739157.”
When called, a person receiving the call explained how these firearms can be delivered to this correspondent at the said location and how much time will be required for delivery. He also informed me about the price and advance required to be paid to book the order.
“You have to pay Rs 3150 as advance and the remaining amount on delivery of firearms. The price of Katta ranges between Rs 5000 to Rs 7050 while the price of a pistol ranges between Rs 10,000 to Rs 24,000. The revolver’s price ranges between Rs 12,000 to Rs 18,000,” a man receiving the call replied when asking about the location for supply.
The way the man talked suggested that he can supply the arms in any part of the country as when asked him to deliver the arms at Kishoreganj Chowk in Ranchi, he asked whether the place is in Haryana or Punjab. When said it was in Jharkhand, he said ‘delivery can be done by tomorrow.’
When verified through a true caller the number appeared to be registered in the name of ‘Vikash Sharma Gun.’
City police are not aware of such business.
“Pls share the details. I am looking into the matter,“ S.P.(city) Saurav said when contacted for his comment on the matter.
Though the police have yet to ascertain the genuineness of the business of firearms, it has become evident some exercise is definitely taking place to supply illegal firearms and police and common people are required to be more alert.
A police official said that it could be a fraud attempt.
“I don’t think those giving advance will get firearms and in case of non-delivery of firearms, he will be able to be in a position to take action. In my opinion, it is an attempt to dupe money from criminal-minded firearm-friendly people who want to keep low-cost illegal arms. Those having arm licenses can also be victims of this,” the police official said.
