In a significant breakthrough, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) apprehended two individuals in possession of illegal firearms near the U N Mehta Hospital in Shahibaug on Friday. Acting on credible intelligence, the ATS seized two country-made pistols and six rounds of ammunition from the accused, who were reportedly planning to use the weapons to settle a personal vendetta.

According to officials, the case was directed to the ATS to intensify surveillance on organised crime involving narcotics, arms, and other illegal activities. On December 13, ATS received a tip-off about two suspects carrying firearms near the U N Mehta Hospital compound.

The officers apprehended the accused on the footpath between the ingate and outgate of the hospital premises. The suspects were identified as Munaf Makad (34), a resident of Jamainagar, Botad, and Tausif Khaliani (23), a resident of Madani Society, Botad.

Upon searching the suspects, officers recovered one country-made pistol loaded with four rounds of 7.65 mm ammunition from Munaf Makad, while Tausif Khaliani was found carrying another pistol along with two rounds of ammunition. The accused were taken into custody, and a case was registered under Arms Act.

History of violence and vendetta

Preliminary investigations revealed that both individuals have a criminal history. Munaf Makad has eight prior cases registered against him, while Tausif Khaliani has seven cases to his name.

The police suspect that the accused were planning to avenge the murder of Munaf's brother, Mohsin Makad, which happened two years ago. Mohsin was allegedly shot dead by individuals identified as Siraj Don and Afzal. During the same incident, Munaf was also injured after being stabbed. The ATS believes the duo was carrying weapons to settle scores against the perpetrators of that crime.

The accused are currently being interrogated for further details regarding their plans and associates.

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