Major Raid at Central Prison Uncovers Massive Smuggling Operation
In a high-stakes operation, Bengaluru police conducted an unprecedented raid at the high-security wing of the Central Prison, uncovering a significant cache of illegal items. The meticulously planned raid targeted 11 cells, including those of notorious gangster ‘Wilson Garden’ Naga and his associates. The operation, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) Sarah Fathima, revealed a staggering amount of contraband, including 15 mobile phones, three chargers, seven electric stoves, Bluetooth headphones, flash drives, knives, wallets, cigarettes, beedis, and Rs 36,000 in cash.
The raid comes in the wake of allegations that VIP inmates, such as Kannada film star Darshan Thoogudeepa and gangsters like Naga, were receiving “special treatment” in the prison, prompting state government action and large-scale transfers of prison officials. To ensure the raid’s success, police kept the operation secret, informing inspectors just 15 minutes before and confiscating their phones to prevent leaks. The operation was executed with precision, involving a 40-member team, including an assistant commissioner of police and two inspectors.
The raid was notably different from previous operations due to its secrecy and the methodical approach, including the use of independent witnesses (‘panchas’) to record the seizures and the removal of all prisoners from their cells before the search began to prevent the hiding of evidence.
Highlights:
- Seizures: 15 phones, including a high-end Samsung device, along with chargers, stoves, and other contraband.
- Secrecy: Inspectors were informed just 15 minutes prior; their phones were confiscated.
- Targets: 11 cells, including those of prominent gangsters.
The operation underscores the ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal activities within the prison system and restore order following the controversy over VIP treatment of inmates.
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