Hyderabad: Telangana Police have arrested a former Army havildar in connection with the sensational theft of weapons from the 20 Madras Regiment armoury at Bolarum in Secunderabad Cantonment. Investigators say the accused allegedly entered the secured premises twice on a scooter by claiming he belonged to the regiment and escaped with a cache of firearms and ammunition.
The case has raised serious questions over security arrangements at one of the country's high-security military establishments.
12 Weapons Stolen From Army Armoury
According to Telangana Police, the former soldier allegedly broke open the armoury locks and stole 12 weapons, comprising four AK-203 assault rifles, seven pistols and one INSAS rifle. More than 1,000 rounds of ammunition were also initially reported missing, with subsequent police accounts putting the recovered ammunition at nearly 1,900 rounds.
Authorities later recovered the stolen weapons and ammunition from locations in and around Hyderabad. Three other people have also been taken into custody in connection with the case, according to police.
How the Suspect Entered the Cantonment
Police said the accused had served with the 20 Madras Regiment and knew the layout and procedures of the premises.
Investigators allege that he entered the cantonment twice on the night of August 31. During the second entry, he reportedly told a guard that he was from the regiment.
The suspect allegedly used a scooter to move the weapons outside the armoury area, initially hiding them in nearby foliage before transporting them further. Police later traced his movements using CCTV footage and mobile-phone location data.
Alleged Motive Under Investigation
Telangana DGP C.V. Anand said investigators believe the theft was linked to a grudge against the former commanding officer. The accused reportedly retired/demitted service on June 30, 2026.
Police are continuing to investigate whether the theft involved any wider criminal network and whether others assisted in planning or moving the weapons.
Security Questions After Major Breach
The incident has triggered questions about security and record-keeping at the armoury. Earlier in the investigation, police and Army officials had questioned personnel over the maintenance of armoury registers and security procedures.
The theft was detected on August 31 when the armoury was opened and weapons were found missing. An Army complaint was subsequently filed with the police.
Police and Military Agencies Join Investigation
Telangana Police said Military Intelligence and other agencies assisted in tracing the stolen weapons and identifying the former soldier. Investigators questioned more than 70 people before focusing on recently retired personnel and eventually confronting the suspect with technical evidence.
The case remains under investigation, with authorities examining the complete chain of events and the role of the other individuals detained.
Key Highlights
12 weapons allegedly stolen from a high-security Army armoury
4 AK-203 rifles, 7 pistols and 1 INSAS rifle among the weapons reported stolen
Former Army havildar arrested
Suspect allegedly used a scooter to move the weapons
Stolen arms and ammunition recovered
Three other people reportedly in custody
Security procedures and possible accomplices under investigation
Note: The allegations described above are based on the police investigation and reports. The accused remains entitled to due process, and guilt will be determined by the court.
