NIA arrests absconding accused in Bihar AK-47 smuggling case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Bhairaw Tripathi, an absconding accused in a case involving the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and live ammunition in Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Tripathi was apprehended on August 19, 2026.

The investigation revealed a conspiracy to smuggle sophisticated prohibited weapons and rifles from Nagaland to Bihar. According to the NIA, the intent behind the smuggling operation was to disrupt public peace and safety while endangering national security.

The case originated in May 2024 following the seizure of an AK-47 rifle with a lens and ammunition near the Murghatiya Bridge. Since the initial recovery, the NIA has filed multiple supplementary chargesheets against several individuals, including Vikash Kumar, Satyam Kumar, Devmani Rai, Ahmad Ansari, Manjoor Khan, and Kundan Kumar. The accused face charges under the Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.