Wanted Drug Trafficker Arrested After Gunfight With Police In Itanagar; Firearm, Heroin Seized

A wanted drug trafficker was arrested in Itanagar after a gunfight with police. A US-made firearm, heroin, and ammunition were seized. Two officers were injured in the operation.

By : PTI | Updated at : 23 Mar 2025 10:02 PM (IST)

A drug trafficker, wanted in several cases, was arrested in Arunachal Pradesh's capital region after an exchange of fire between the criminal and police personnel, a senior officer said on Sunday.

Acting on a tip-off, a police team apprehended him from Hollongi near here on Saturday evening and seized 12 grams of narcotics substance and a US-made sophisticated firearm from his possession, Capital Superintendent of Police (SP) Rohit Rajbir Singh told reporters.

Based on intelligence inputs, a police team asked a vehicle to stop but it did not, and as the suspect attempted to flee the spot, the police personnel chased the four-wheeler and intercepted it, the SP said.

Rohit (alias Ruhit) Basumatary, the accused drug trafficker, then started firing at the police team, and the police personnel led by SDPO Kengo Dirchi retaliated, Singh said.

The SP also said the police exhibited commendable restraint and professionalism, ensuring no harm to civilians.

The accused was taken to R K Mission Hospital here for medical treatment, and two officers were also injured in the operation, the SP said.

“A search of the suspect’s vehicle was conducted in the presence of magistrates and independent witnesses. Approximately, 12 grams of suspected heroin, concealed in a green soap box near a spare tyre, and a US-made sophisticated firearm along with six live rounds of ammunition were seized,” Singh added.

"Arunachal Pradesh will never be a haven for drug traffickers. Our vigilance is constant, and our operations will continue until every such network is dismantled. Those who endanger our society through the narcotics trade will be pursued relentlessly and brought to justice," Capital Superintendent of Police (SP) Rohit Rajbir Singh itanastated.

Basumatary has a long history of serious criminal offences, including robbery, illegal arms possession, and drug trafficking, across Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

A case has been registered at Chimpu police station, and a special investigation team, led by Inspector Rina Sonam, has been assigned to handle further legal proceedings.

Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as the battle against drug abuse requires collective action, Singh added.