SILIGURI,: In a joint operation by Army intelligence, Sukna Trishakti Corps, Darjeeling Police and NDRF team, Francis Ekka (47) was arrested from his residence at Belgachi Tea Estate under Mirik block on Tuesday evening for allegedly being involved in the sale of unidentified equipment and documents purportedly linked to the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
Ekka is an employee of Forest department and is stationed at Panighatta forest range.
When interrogated, Ekka claimed that the equipment in his possession was radioactive and he forged DRDO documents and other materials.
According to police, Ekka is a resident of Girmit Line of Belgachi Tea Estate under Mirik block and was trying to sell one unidentified piece of equipment from DRDO.
Ekka was produced at Mirik Court on Wednesday after police registered cases under sections 303(2)/338/336(3)/318(4)/61(2)/3(5) of BNS. The court granted a five-day police remand for interrogation and investigation.