SHILLONG : In a major breakthrough, Meghalaya Police have successfully recovered a stolen .303 rifle and arrested three individuals in connection with the theft reported earlier this month.
According to East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem, the rifle went missing from the MCCL factory storeroom on April 11, following which an FIR was promptly registered.
Acting swiftly on the case, police launched an investigation and apprehended two suspects — Shaiborlang Jyrwa and Sawbor Sooting. During interrogation, the duo led authorities to the recovery of the weapon.
The rifle, bearing registration number 3709740, was recovered from a residence in Mawkisyiem, Sohra, specifically from the house of Alpha Mary Jyrwa, the grandmother of one of the accused.
Further investigation led to the arrest of a third suspect, identified as Teilang Sohkhia, who was also allegedly involved in the crime.
Police officials confirmed that all three accused have admitted to stealing the rifle and concealing it at the location. The weapon has since been seized as evidence.
SP Syiem stated that the accused will be produced before the court as the investigation proceeds further.
The swift recovery of the firearm has been seen as a significant step in maintaining law and order in the region, especially considering the serious nature of weapon theft.