In a major crackdown on drug trafficking in Mumbai, the city’s anti-narcotics cell (ANC) conducted nine targeted operations over the past few days and seized contraband worth around Rs 2.04 crore.

Eleven people have been arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, in this regard.

The operations were carried out at Dharavi, Bandra, Bhayandar, Govandi, Goregaon, Borivali, and Malad. The seized drugs included 198 grams of mephedrone (MD/Meow Meow), 6.233 kilogrammes of ganja (cannabis), 346 grams of heroin, and 3,460 tablets of controlled substances such as Nitrozepam, Alprozolam, and Tramadol.

According to a press note released by the ANC Crime Branch, the raids were part of an intensified drive against drug trafficking in Mumbai.

“These actions underscore our commitment to eradicating the drug menace and creating a drug-free society in Greater Mumbai,” the note stated.

Key highlights of the crackdown

Dharavi (Tuesday): ANC’s Azad Maidan unit busted an illegal sale of MD and arrested two people. The officers have recovered 140 grams of MD worth Rs 42 lakh from the duo. Further investigations are underway.

Bandra West (Wednesday and Saturday): Separate raids led to the recovery of 849 grams of cannabis worth Rs 21,225 as well as 15 grams of heroin, valuing around Rs 6 lakh from two people.

Bhayandar West (Wednesday): One person was arrested after ANC seized 1.182 kg of cannabis worth Rs 59,100.

Mahim (Saturday): ANC recovered 310 grams of heroin worth Rs 1.24 crore.

Govandi (Wednesday and Saturday): A total of 3,460 tablets of Nitrozepam, Alprozolam, and Tramadol, valued at over Rs 10.4 lakh, were seized.

Goregaon East, Borivali West, and Malad West: Coordinated raids resulted in the seizure of 58 grams of MD, 21 grams of heroin, and 4.202 kg of ganja.

The operations were conducted under the guidance of Mumbai Police Commissioner Devendra Bharti, Joint Commissioner (Crime) Lakhmi Gautam, Additional Commissioner (Crime) Shailesh Balkawade, and Deputy Commissioner (ANC) Navnath Dhawale.

Mumbai Police have reiterated their zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics and urged citizens to report suspicious activities. The bust is seen as a significant step in curbing drug addiction and related crimes in the metropolis, with investigations ongoing to dismantle larger networks and trace suppliers.

Source