In a significant operation, the State Police’s Special Task Force (STF) conducted a major raid in the Sandeshkhali area of North 24 Parganas, recovering a substantial cache of weapons and triggering fresh political controversy in West Bengal. The operation, carried out in the Manipur locality of Sandeshkhali, targeted the residences of two local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders, Robin Das and his brother Gopal Das. According to local sources, the duo is known to be close associates of suspended TMC strongman Sheikh Shahjahan, who is currently in judicial custody.
Acting on intelligence inputs, STF personnel carried out extensive searches not only inside the houses but also in the surrounding areas, including adjacent ponds. Sources within the investigating agency indicated that a significant quantity of arms was recovered during the operation. While officials have not yet disclosed the exact nature or volume of the weapons seized, preliminary findings suggest that they may have been stockpiled with the intention of creating unrest in the region.
The recovery sparked immediate reaction among local residents, with a large crowd gathering near the site. The situation turned tense, prompting authorities to deploy additional security forces to maintain order. Personnel from the Sandeshkhali Police Station, along with Central Forces, were present during the operation, which was conducted under a tight security cover across multiple locations.
Investigators have also begun collecting information from local sources as part of the ongoing probe.
Both Robin and Gopal have faced allegations in the past, with some residents claiming that they exercised considerable influence in the area and were involved in acts of intimidation and coercion against political opponents and ordinary citizens.
The incident has ignited a political firestorm, with the BJP launching a sharp attack on the TMC. BJP MLA Sajal Ghosh, in a sarcastic remark, said that while ponds were traditionally known for yielding fish, under the current regime, they are now producing weapons. He alleged that the recovery reflects the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state.
Ghosh further claimed that had the electoral outcome been different, these weapons might have been used for violent purposes. He expressed concern that such stockpiling posed a threat to ordinary citizens and demanded stringent action against those responsible.
The TMC has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.
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