A former military officer who retired just two months ago has been detained by Malkajgiri Police in connection with the theft of 12 firearms and more than 1,800 rounds of ammunition from the 20 Madras Regiment premises in Bolarum, Secunderabad Cantonment in Telangana.

The development marks a major breakthrough in the case, with investigators establishing the former officer’s alleged involvement in the theft. He has also reportedly named two to three more persons during questioning, and their role is being verified.

The police are yet to confirm further details and if the stolen arms and ammunition have been recovered.

The weapons were reported missing on August 31 after they were last physically accounted for at around 6 p.m. on August 30. The discrepancy came to light at about 7.50 a.m. when personnel opened the Kote and Battalion Magazine and found the locks and storage boxes broken.

The missing cache comprised four AK-203 assault rifles, an INSAS 1B1 rifle, six 9 mm Auto 1A pistols and a civilian 6.35-bore pistol. A passive night-vision binocular and 21 magazines were also reported missing. The value of the stolen items was estimated at about ₹15 lakh.

The case had triggered a multi-agency investigation involving the Army, Military Intelligence, Telangana police and the National Investigation Agency. Further details are expected to come out later today.