Further crackdown on drugs, illegal liquor, and arms

In a major crackdown during the state assembly elections, the Navi Mumbai Police have seized Rs. 1.14 crore in cash, along with a range of illegal substances, arms, and liquor. Special surveillance teams, both mobile and stationary, have been deployed across the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate’s four assembly constituencies  Airoli, Belapur, Panvel, and Uran  to ensure strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct.

Between October 15 and November 7, 2024, these surveillance teams seized Rs.1,14,57,000 from three vehicles transporting illegal cash. The amount has been deposited in the treasury, and the Income Tax Department is conducting further investigations.

In addition to the cash seizures, the police have also been proactive in curbing drug trafficking. The anti-narcotics squad has executed 18 major operations, confiscating 410 grams of cocaine, 124.1 grams of MD, 34.82 grams of heroin, and 35.42 grams of ganja, with a combined market value of over Rs.1.4 crore.

The police have also been targeting illegal arms during the election period. So far, 16 cases have been registered, resulting in the seizure of 16 weapons, including pistols, swords, and knives, as well as 4 live cartridges.

In response to the illegal sale of liquor, which is a common concern during elections, Navi Mumbai Police have conducted 127 raids, seizing 2,470 litres of illegal liquor valued at Rs. 8.19 lakh. In addition, 10 operations were carried out against Gutkha and Pan Masala sellers, leading to the seizure of 10,060 pouches worth Rs. 10.25 lakh. The police also confiscated vehicles, cash, mobile phones, and a laptop during the raids.