ISI-Linked Arms Racket Busted In Delhi
The Delhi Police Crime Branch announced on 22 November 2025 that it has dismantled an arms-smuggling ring allegedly linked to the Inter‑Services Intelligence (ISI). The operation resulted in the recovery of 10 high-end foreign pistols and 92 live cartridges. The weapons are reported to have been smuggled into India from Pakistan using drones.
Smuggling Route And Methods
Officials said the pistols included a Turkish-manufactured PX-5.7 model and were brought in over the border from Pakistan through drone drops in remote areas. The cartridges were transported in tandem to supply the illicit network. Authorities described the modus operandi as a sophisticated cross-border trafficking route, making use of advanced technology to bypass traditional checkpoints.
Link To ISI And Regional Impact
According to investigators, the link to the ISI is based on intelligence inputs about state-sponsored arms supply lines to criminal gangs in India. The bust raises concerns about growing weapon flows into the national capital region and the potential for escalation in violence. Security analysts say the use of drones for arms smuggling is an emerging challenge in India’s internal security architecture.
Next Steps And Challenges
The Delhi Police have arrested several persons in connection with the racket and are tracing the full supply chain, including handlers abroad and domestic distributors. Expert observers note that while this is a significant seizure, ensuring the security of India’s borders—especially demarcated regions where drones can drop illicit goods—will remain a daunting task. Coordination among intelligence, border forces and local police will be critical going forward.
