Illegal weapons’ market thriving

It seems the practice of using illegal weapons by middle-level realty businessmen and gangs in the twin cities is becoming an increasing menace.In wake of the recent attack on MIM MLA Akbaruddin Owaisi, which took place in broad daylight in the Old City, Task Force police have started the process of identifying names of city bigwigs who allegedly possess illegal weapons.Recently, a Telugu Desam senior leader from Krishna district, Chalasani Venkateswara Rao alias Pandu, notorious factionist Maddelacheru Suri and on Saturday were also victims of attacks by assailants.Pandu and Suri died on the spot while Akbaruddin was critically injured and undergoing treatment, as four bullets of a country-made weapon were pumped into him. Interestingly, all attacks reportedly took place for land settlement issues.Buying or possessing a gun in this city is a fad. Whether it is the passion to possess a firearm or for personal protection,  most prominent personalities, bigwigs and businessmen are keen to purchase weapons illegally by paying huge sums.Illegal country-made tapanchas and guns from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are easily available for anything between Rs 10,000 and Rs 30,000, depending on the model.Sources say a few dealers hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have been selling arms through their agents in the city. In the last year, it is estimated that at least 500 illegal weapons were supplied. They added that illegal weapons are brought into the city only after verifying the authenticity of the customers. Customers are reportedly made to pay at least five per cent of the total cost as initial payment and the weapon is delivered within ten days.VB Kamalasan Reddy, deputy commissioner of police (DCP), Task Force told City Express that with increase in number of crimes committed using illegal weapons, a drive to track the unauthorised firearms racket will start soon. "Most individuals, who come here from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are involved in the illegal trade of firearms. They came to the city to earn their livelihood and have started the illegal weapon supplies business," Reddy added.

By Mouli Mareedu

moulimareedu@gmail.com