Navi Mumbai Police Seize ₹12 Crore in Drugs, Arrest 16 African Nationals in Major Narcotics Bust
Major Drug Bust
The Navi Mumbai Police recently conducted a significant operation. They arrested 16 African nationals in connection with drug trafficking. This operation seized narcotics worth ₹12 crore. It was a major effort from the Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) and the Economic Offenses Branch (EOB) of the Navi Mumbai Crime Branch.
Details of the Seizure
The operation took place late on Thursday night. Police targeted 25 locations across the city. They uncovered a large stash of narcotics during the bust. Among the seized items were:
- Cocaine: 2.45 kg valued at ₹10.22 crore
- Mephedrone (MD): 633 grams worth ₹1.48 crore
- Methylene: 58 grams estimated at ₹11.60 lakh
- Charas: 23 grams worth ₹3.45 lakh
- Ganja: 31 grams
The police confirmed that a sophisticated international syndicate was involved. The 16 arrested individuals were believed to be key players in this operation. Their involvement suggests a complex network operating in the drug trade.
Praise for the Operation
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Bhausaheb Dhole commended the crime branch teams. He described the operation as a major success. The police are working to dismantle the narcotics distribution network in the region.
Ongoing Investigation
In the course of the investigation, authorities have issued notices to about 73 other African nationals. Their visas and passports have expired, and they have been asked to leave the country. This move is part of a broader effort to clamp down on illegal activities related to drug trafficking.
As the holiday season approaches, authorities are concerned about a rise in drug consumption and distribution. This season typically sees an increase in drug-related activities. The police are determined to tackle this issue.
International Connections
Authorities are also investigating the international connections of the syndicate. They aim to trace the origin and distribution network of the seized drugs. Understanding these connections is crucial for addressing the larger drug trade problem.
Recent Operations in Karnataka
Earlier this month, a separate operation took place in Ullal, Karnataka. Police arrested four individuals for possessing and distributing MDMA. The first raid led to the seizure of 50 grams of MDMA. In addition, local authorities confiscated a car, three mobile phones, and ₹7.76 lakh in cash.
A second raid resulted in another arrest. The suspect was found with 53 grams of MDMA and more cash and mobile phones. This case is also being investigated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The authorities are working to understand the full extent of the drug operation in Karnataka.
Delhi’s Largest Drug Bust
In a related incident, Delhi Police made a significant drug bust in October. They seized over 560 kilograms of cocaine valued at around ₹2,000 crore in Mehrauli. Officials suspect that an Afghan drug syndicate was behind this operation. There are connections to multiple countries, raising concerns about international drug cartels operating in India.
Continued Efforts Against Drug Trafficking
The authorities in Navi Mumbai are committed to investigating the seized narcotics. They are coordinating with both national and international law enforcement agencies. Their goal is to identify the sources and distributors of the drugs. This effort is part of a broader national strategy to combat drug trafficking and consumption.
With police pledging to enhance surveillance, they have made it clear that tackling drug smuggling networks is a priority. The recent operations show a proactive approach to curbing the rising tide of drug-related crime.