12 firearms missing from Army camp: NIA probes, personnel questioned
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday visited the premises of the 20 Madras Regiment in Bollarum, Secunderabad Cantonment, as part of the investigation into the disappearance of 12 firearms and ammunition from the Army establishment.
The NIA team inspected the scene of offence and held discussions with investigators stationed inside the Cantonment. The visit comes as the probe has widened, with Army personnel, including Agniveers, sepoys, and others who had access to the premises, being questioned. Military Intelligence and multiple units of the Telangana police are assisting in the investigation.
According to officials, the weapons were reported missing after the locks of the Kote and Battalion Magazine were found broken on August 31. The firearms had last been physically accounted for on the evening of August 30. Police have ruled out the involvement of Agniveers in the theft.
The investigation is being conducted from within the defence area, with officials maintaining confidentiality in view of the sensitive nature of the case and national security concerns. Authorities have not disclosed specific details about the missing weapons, citing operational security.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of military installations and prompted a comprehensive review of armory protocols. The NIA, which handles cases of national importance, has taken over the investigation to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry.
Efforts are on to trace the missing firearms and ammunition, with multiple agencies coordinating their search operations. Further developments are awaited as the investigation progresses.
