Pimpri: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Property Crime Unit has successfully dismantled an arms smuggling operation, resulting in the arrest of a habitual criminal and four accomplices.

Naval Singh Zhamre, the primary accused, was found to be smuggling pistols from Madhya Pradesh and distributing them in the Pimpri-Chinchwad area. The operation led to the seizure of seven pistols, fourteen live cartridges, and other goods valued at ₹16.65 lakh.

The arrested individuals include Pradeep alias Akshay Balasaheb Dhage, Suraj Ashok Shivale, Naval Veersingh Zhamre, Kamlesh alias Danny Kanade, and Pawan Dattatray Shejwal.

According to the police, Dhage, Shivale, and Zhamre were apprehended within the jurisdiction of Alandi Police Station following a tip-off received by officers Ganesh Sawant, Harshad, and Sumit Devkar.

During interrogation, they were found in possession of three pistols and seven live cartridges. These three have been charged under the Arms Act, and a court has remanded them in police custody.

Further investigation revealed that Zhamre was not only importing pistols from Madhya Pradesh but also selling them to other criminals. He sold a pistol and live cartridges to Pawan Shejwal through Kamlesh Kanade. Additionally, Zhamre was found with three more pistols and six live cartridges.

The comprehensive operation resulted in the seizure of a total of seven pistols, fourteen live cartridges, and property valued at ₹16.65 lakh. The investigation confirmed Zhamre's involvement in arms smuggling activities.

Notably, Pawan Shejwal has a record of five housebreaking cases, while Kamlesh alias Danny Kanade is facing a murder charge at Manchar Police Station.

This action was carried out under the guidance of Police Commissioner Vinoy Kumar Chaubey and led by Police Inspector Vijay Dhamal, with support from Police Sub-Inspectors Bharat Gosavi, Ganesh Sawant, Harshad Kadam, Sumit Devkar, Nitin Lokhande, Ashish Bankar, and Ganesh Hinge.