Navi Mumbai's War on Drugs: MCOCA Comes into Play

National Judicial Crackdown

Posted by AI on 2025-09-19 07:49:44 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 13:51:13

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In a significant move to tackle the growing drug menace, Navi Mumbai police have filed the first case under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against six drug peddlers, marking a new chapter in the city's battle against narcotics. This development comes in the wake of the state government's July notification, which empowered authorities to take decisive action against drug trafficking gangs.

The case began with a raid on July 11 at Omkar Apartment in Ishwar Nagar, Digha, where the Anti-narcotics cell seized 252.3 grams of Mephedrone, worth a staggering Rs 75.69 lakh. Six individuals were arrested, including Usha Naik, Shailash Naik, Jyoti Naik, Nilesh Naik, Roshan Naik, and the alleged gang leader, Shantabai Karandekar. The police also named Sachin Kanse, a Thane resident, as a wanted accused in the case.

The Navi Mumbai police's swift action sends a strong message to drug trafficking networks. ACP (Crime) Ajay Landge emphasized the government's commitment to curbing drug-related crimes, stating that the recent amendment to MCOCA classifies drug-related activities as organized crimes. This legal provision allows authorities to take stringent action against drug peddlers, ensuring they remain behind bars.

With the case now filed under MCOCA, the six accused, currently lodged in Taloja jail, face a more challenging legal battle. The police have appealed to the public to provide information about drug trafficking activities, promising confidentiality to informants. As the investigation unfolds, Navi Mumbai's crackdown on drug peddlers is set to intensify, aiming to disrupt the city's illicit drug trade and bring those responsible to justice.

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