Nagpur: In a major operation, Gittikhadan Police on Friday recovered a cache of illegal weapons, including three country-made pistols, swords and knives, following raids at a café in Dabha and the residence of a history-sheeter. Two accused have been arrested in connection with the case.

The arrested accused have been identified as Abbas Saiyyad Khan (25), a resident of Ganesh Nagar, and his associate Ritik Naik (25).

According to police sources, officers received a tip-off that Abbas, along with his associate, was present at Papa Yoyo Café on Dabha Ring Road and was carrying a country-made pistol while allegedly planning to execute a serious crime.

Acting swiftly, Gittikhadan Police cordoned off the area and conducted a raid at the café. During the search, police recovered a country-made pistol and live cartridges from Abbas.

Following the initial seizure, police carried out another raid at Abbas’ residence, where they allegedly recovered two more pistols, two to three swords, and multiple knives. The large quantity of weapons recovered raised serious concerns among investigators.

Police records indicate that Abbas is a known criminal and was previously accused in a double murder case registered in 2022 under Wadi Police Station limits. Action under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) had also been initiated against him in the past.

Investigators suspect the accused may have been preparing for a serious offence, but police intervened before any incident could take place.

Further investigation is underway under the guidance of Senior Police Inspector Lalita Todase.