In a dramatic twist to an ongoing theft investigation, Guwahati police have unearthed a massive consignment of stolen metal scrap worth ₹12 crore from three local dumpyards. The discovery has thrown light on a sophisticated scrap theft racket operating under the guise of regular metal trade.
The seizure occurred during targeted raids over the past week, where authorities acted on intelligence about illegal scrap processing in the city. What they found exceeded all expectations—several tonnes of valuable metal, believed to be stolen from public and private infrastructure.
How the Guwahati Metal Scrap Racket Operated
The stolen metal included copper wiring, iron rods, and industrial components, likely sourced from stolen construction and electric supplies. Investigators suspect that organized gangs were stealing from sites across Assam and routing the material to these dumpyards.
The dumpyards, located in the outskirts of Guwahati, acted as collection and resale points. Initial assessments show that the racket may have been running for over a year, with several buyers unknowingly purchasing stolen goods.
The Guwahati Police Department is now working to identify all links in the chain—from the thieves to the transporters and scrap dealers.
Hunt On for Prime Accused Dumpyard Owner
Authorities have launched a manhunt for the main suspect, the owner of one of the largest dumpyards involved. He has been missing since the raids began and is believed to be the key figure behind this illegal operation.
Meanwhile, three individuals have been detained for questioning. Their statements are expected to uncover more about the scale of the crime and possible accomplices in other parts of Assam.
You can read more about recent crime investigations in Assam to understand how local law enforcement is cracking down on illegal networks.
Why This Scrap Is So Valuable
The sheer value—₹12 crore—caught everyone by surprise. With metal prices on the rise, scrap like copper and iron has become highly lucrative. Stolen electrical components alone can fetch lakhs per truckload.
Scrap yards often do not verify the origin of the metal, making them ideal locations to “launder” stolen goods. Also, authorities say this case highlights the urgent need for stricter regulation and licensing of scrap dealers.
Officials are also exploring whether some recovered materials came from government infrastructure projects, including railway lines and power grids.
To understand more about how stolen infrastructure impacts public services, check our article on public infrastructure theft.
Guwahati’s Growing Concern With Organized Theft
This case has put Guwahati’s law enforcement on high alert. Over the past year, there has been a noticeable uptick in reported thefts of electric cables, railway parts, and construction materials.
The recent bust reveals how deeply some of these thefts are embedded in illegal trade networks. It also raises concerns about accountability and gaps in monitoring scrap metal circulation.
Community awareness and better coordination between contractors and police are being recommended to reduce theft cases. Authorities are now asking citizens and businesses to report suspicious bulk scrap transport.
What’s Next in the Investigation?
The Guwahati police have sent samples of the scrap for forensic verification. This may help trace the origin of the stolen material and determine if it was part of government or private infrastructure.
Although, teams are also scanning the financial records of the dumpyards for evidence of black-market transactions. More arrests are likely as the investigation progresses.
Officials are calling for a statewide audit of scrap dealers, hoping to prevent such rackets in the future.
Final Word: From Dumpyard to Crime Scene
What appeared to be simple trash heaps have turned into crime scenes revealing a large-scale operation involving stolen goods. This discovery of ₹12 crore worth of Guwahati stolen metal scrap is not just a criminal case—it’s a wake-up call.
Stay tuned for more updates on this case in our Guwahati crime section. To report illegal scrap dealings, contact the local police or submit tips anonymously at the Assam Police tip line.