Arrest 1298 in major operation

In a sweeping crackdown under the 'Drug-free Navi Mumbai' campaign, the Navi Mumbai Police have dealt a significant blow to drug trafficking networks operating within the city. Over the past eighteen months, the Anti-Narcotics Cell conducted 803 operations targeting narcotics, gutkha, and hookah parlours, resulting in the arrest of 1298 individuals, including 57 foreign nationals. The seized narcotics, valued at Rs. 30.89 crore, underscore the scale of the operation.

Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe initiated stringent measures after noting the alarming prevalence of narcotics trade, especially among students and youth. From January 2023 to May 2024, the police conducted 591 operations under the NDPS Act, leading to the arrest of 700 drug smugglers and possessors. The confiscated drugs included cocaine, heroin, mephedrone, LSD, and tramadol tablets, among others, worth Rs. 28.58 crore.

The police also cracked down on illegal gutkha and hookah parlours, conducting 239 operations that resulted in 588 arrests and the seizure of banned substances valued at Rs. 2.15 crore. They also dismantled 74 secretive hookah parlours and seized goods worth Rs. 5.82 lakh.

To educate the community about the hazards of narcotics, the Anti-Narcotics Unit conducted awareness programs at 33 locations, including schools, colleges, and societies across the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate.

Senior Police Inspector Neeraj Chaudhary highlighted ongoing efforts under the 'Nashamukt Navi Mumbai' campaign, emphasizing the disruption of drug rackets and public awareness initiatives. Citizens were urged to report any information related to narcotics, facilitating swift police action.

In targeted operations against foreign nationals involved in drug trafficking, the police arrested 128 individuals in various raids, seizing narcotics worth millions of rupees. Notable seizures included methaqualone and cocaine during strategic operations in Khopoli, Taloja, and Kharghar.

The recent raid on February 16, 2024, in Koparkhairane Sector-19A resulted in the arrest of three individuals with significant quantities of narcotics, underscoring ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crime in Navi Mumbai.