Priced from Rs 9000 to Rs 3 lakh, this is Kochi's latest business

KOCHI: In recent times, Kochi, the metropolitan city of Kerala has seen a significant rise in the presence of criminal gangs, leading to a surge in robberies and murders. These gangs operate actively within the city including those involved in drug dealing. Reports indicate that firearms have become indispensable commodities in the hands of these gangs.

Firearms are reportedly being sold in Kochi at prices ranging from Rs 9,000 to Rs 300,000. The police have received information suggesting that both locally produced and imported firearms are available in the city, with an increasing number coming from Bihar as opposed to earlier sources like Mangalore and Mumbai.

While country-made guns were previously available for Rs 2,000-3,000, their demand has decreased due to their limited usability. Consequently, newer models of country-made guns are priced higher ranging from Rs 9,000 to Rs 20,000 and are preferred by quota gangs for their increased lethality compared to police-issued revolvers.

Additionally, it's reported that foreign-made firearms are entering Kochi through neighboring countries such as Nepal and Bangladesh. Firearms of all price ranges are in high demand, with quotation gangs using them for intimidation and self-defense. However, the police acknowledge that there's a significant portion of individuals carrying firearms merely for ostentation. The police are also concerned about not just the presence of firearms but also their illicit sale which exacerbates the situation.