UditVani, Jamshedpur : In a major breakthrough, East Singhbhum police have solved a high-profile armed robbery case within 24 hours of its occurrence in Chakulia town.
Two accused have been arrested, and nearly the entire loot—over 1.3 kg of gold ornaments and ₹1.55 lakh in cash—has been recovered, showcasing efficient coordination between Jharkhand and West Bengal police forces.
The Robbery That Shook Chakulia
On the night of June 30, three masked assailants broke into the home of 70-year-old Arun Kumar Nandi in Purana Bazaar, Chakulia. Holding the family at gunpoint, the robbers looted gold jewelry weighing more than 1.5 kg and fled with ₹1.55 lakh in cash. The crime left the quiet locality shaken, especially elderly residents who now feared for their safety.
Prompt Police Action and Inter-State Coordination
Reacting swiftly to the gravity of the crime, East Singhbhum’s Senior Superintendent of Police and the Rural SP ordered immediate action. A special raiding team was formed under the leadership of the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Ghatshila. Assistance from West Bengal’s Jamboni police station was also enlisted, given the suspects’ suspected cross-border movements.
A tip-off revealed that the culprits were heading toward Bara Banshil village in West Bengal’s Jamboni area on a motorcycle. Acting swiftly, the joint police team set up a blockade. When the suspects attempted to flee on foot, two were nabbed. One managed to escape under the cover of darkness. A search operation is underway to apprehend the third accused.
Arrested Individuals:
1. Mohammad Rafiq (48)
Native of Rafi Ganj, Aurangabad (Bihar)
Currently residing near Brahmanand Hospital, Chandil, Seraikela-Kharsawan
2. Niranjan Gaur
Resident of Bagbera Traffic Colony, Jamshedpur
What Police Recovered:
Gold ornaments totaling 1340.720 grams, including:
Ladies’ rings, earrings, mangalsutras, chains, lockets, necklaces, baby jewelry, and men’s rings.
₹1.55 lakh in cash
A Super Splendor motorcycle (JH05DN 8350)
One Micromax keypad phone
A country-made pistol (katta) with a live round
A foldable steel knife
All ornaments were packed in a green-and-black checkered bag, recovered during raids.
Organized Crime Angle Under Probe
During interrogation, Mohammad Rafiq led police to the hidden firearm and live ammunition, while Niranjan Gaur was found in possession of looted gold and the weapon used. Investigators suspect the involvement of a larger inter-state gang operating between Jharkhand and West Bengal. Intelligence gathering and deeper investigation are ongoing.
Police Earn Community Praise
The efficient response and successful recovery by the joint team—despite the challenges of operating in a border region—has won public appreciation. Senior police officials reiterated their firm stance against crime in border areas:
“No criminal will be allowed to take shelter across state borders. We are committed to ensuring the safety of every citizen,” said the Senior Superintendent of Police.
The incident, which initially sparked fear among Chakulia residents, especially the elderly, now sees a renewed sense of relief and faith in law enforcement.
Looking Ahead
The manhunt continues for the third accused, and police believe his arrest will uncover more layers of the gang’s network.
The case stands as a testament to effective inter-agency coordination, swift action, and the unyielding pursuit of justice—sending a strong message to criminal elements operating in the region.
