By – Shubhendra Singh Rajawat
Sambhal has become the focus of intense police and intelligence scrutiny following the discovery of Pakistani-made cartridges and shells in the violence-hit Kotgarvi area. This development has triggered investigations into potential foreign funding behind the unrest. Authorities have ramped up their search efforts, employing metal detectors and even cleaning drainage systems for further evidence.
Discovery of Foreign-Made Ammunition
The situation escalated on Tuesday when police teams recovered a 9mm cartridge and shell manufactured by the Pakistan Ordnance Factory, along with two shells of U.S.-made ammunition. Additionally, two other .32 bore shells were found in a trash pile near Tanki Road, behind the Jama Masjid. The findings have raised concerns about the origin of the weapons and the possibility of foreign involvement in the violence.
Day-Long Searches Yield No New Evidence
On Wednesday, the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) continued combing the area with metal detectors, particularly focusing on drainage systems near the Jama Masjid. The police were assisted by municipal sanitation workers, who cleared out debris and mud from the drains to aid the search. However, after an entire day of intensive operations, no additional evidence was recovered.
Foreign Funding Under Investigation
The discovery of foreign-made ammunition has shifted the focus of the investigation towards the possibility of international funding for the unrest. Authorities are scrutinizing whether these weapons and ammunition were smuggled into the country. Police suspect the involvement of banned organizations or entities with ties to foreign nations.
Official Statements
Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi confirmed the seriousness of the matter, stating, “The recovery of foreign-made cartridges is a matter of grave concern. We are investigating the origin of the 9mm and .32 bore ammunition, which are typically restricted. It is suspected that the weapon using the 9mm cartridges may have been brought in from abroad.”
He further added that higher authorities have been apprised of the situation, and specialized agencies may soon be brought in to assist with the investigation. “The cartridges raise questions about the involvement of foreign elements. We are working to trace the weapons used and identify their supply chain,” he said.
Intelligence on High Alert
Following these discoveries, intelligence agencies have intensified their monitoring of the affected areas. The possibility of foreign involvement has heightened the urgency of the investigations. Officials believe that identifying the origin of the cartridges and weapons could provide crucial insights into the masterminds behind the violence.
Public Reactions
The incident has sparked concern among residents of Sambhal, many of whom are now questioning how foreign-made ammunition could have entered their community. Local leaders have urged authorities to expedite their investigations and ensure that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.
Next Steps
With no additional evidence discovered on Wednesday, police teams are expected to continue their searches in nearby areas. Meanwhile, intelligence agencies are examining the financial transactions and communications of individuals associated with the unrest.
The involvement of foreign-made ammunition has added a complex layer to the investigation. As authorities work to uncover the truth, the focus remains on maintaining peace and preventing any further escalation in the region.