Kasaragod: A seasoned blacksmith who had been discreetly producing country-made rifles was arrested by Rajapuram police from a rented house in Kottakkunnu, Kallar panchayat. Ajith Kumar MK (55), originally from Karthikapuram in Kannur’s Alakode region, was caught with two completed rifles and a third under fabrication.
The arrest followed a tip-off received by District Police Chief B V Vijay Bharat Reddy. Acting on the intel, a team led by Rajapuram Station House Officer Inspector Rajesh P raided the house. Ajith, known for his metalworking skills, was reportedly commissioned by suspected poachers who arranged the premises—owned by a local resident, Justin—for rifle-making.
According to police, Ajith runs a legitimate workshop in his hometown but secretly crafts firearms upon request. “He relocates to the client’s location to make the weapons. In this case, he had likely been staying in Kallar for over a month,” said Inspector Rajesh.
Police seized two functional rifles, an incomplete one, and the tools used for fabrication. The rifles—100 cm long with 85 cm barrels—are crafted using tailpipes and iron flats, with wooden buttstocks finished in buffalo horn. Each piece of workmanship alone costs ₹35,000, excluding materials.
Ajith has a criminal history tied to arms supply for poaching. He was arrested in 2012 by Sullia police and sentenced to two years. Previous cases under the Arms Act were registered in 2010 and 2011; one is still under trial.
Investigations continue to trace his clients and other weapons sold.