The Ghatkopar police thwarted a drug peddling attempt and confiscated 80 grams of mephedrone (MD) worth ₹8.1 lakh from two individuals after a pursuit. However, a constable was injured during the chase. The suspects, Sultan Khan and Shafi Shaikh, were apprehended and taken into custody. Aishwarya Iyer reported
Mumbai Police Foil Drug Peddling Bid, Seize 80 Grams of Mephedrone Worth ₹8.1 Lakh
In a recent incident, the Ghatkopar police in Mumbai successfully thwarted a drug peddling attempt and confiscated a substantial amount of mephedrone (MD). The seized drugs, with a street value of ₹8.1 lakh, were found in the possession of two individuals who were apprehended after a thrilling chase. Unfortunately, during the pursuit, a constable sustained injuries while trying to apprehend the suspects. The two culprits have been identified as Sultan Khan, aged 23, from Mumbra, and Shafi Shaikh, aged 32, from Nagpada.
To avoid attracting the attention of local law enforcement officers, Khan, who has a criminal record, deliberately avoids conducting drug deals near his residential address. This tactic allows him to conduct illicit activities without arousing suspicion.
The operation to capture the drug peddlers was executed based on a tip-off received by the police. Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) Dnyaneshwar Kharmate, part of the detection team, revealed that they had received information regarding the arrival of two individuals in their jurisdiction for a drug deal on Friday. However, the police did not possess the exact physical descriptions of the suspects. Kharmate stated, “We had no idea how they looked, but we knew they were scheduled to meet a buyer at Kamgar Nete Dattaji Salvi maidan in Ghatkopar West. In preparation for their arrival, a team comprising at least 15-16 personnel dispersed themselves throughout the maidan, anticipating that the suspects might attempt to flee.”
The subsequent events unfolded as follows: both Khan and Shaikh arrived at the designated meeting spot and were waiting for their buyer. One of them, however, became suspicious upon noticing a plainclothes police officer. Despite the officers’ attempts to approach them discreetly, the suspects quickly realized that they were being targeted. Their body language changed, and they began scanning their surroundings, devising an escape plan. Sensing danger, the police team moved in, prompting the suspects to flee and initiate a thrilling chase.
During the pursuit, Constable Vikram Thorat attempted to block one of the accused, but he was pushed, resulting in a leg injury. The police managed to apprehend both culprits shortly after. Kharmate observed that the buyer likely escaped due to the chaotic situation. Khan, who had previously been arrested by the Kashimira police for a similar offense, had spent eight months behind bars before resuming his drug peddling activities upon release. Both Khan and Shaikh have been remanded to police custody for three days.
In conclusion, the Ghatkopar police’s successful bust of a drug peddling operation underscores their commitment to maintaining law and order in Mumbai. The seizure of 80 grams of mephedrone, valued at ₹8.1 lakh, is a significant blow to the illicit drug trade in the city. This operation demonstrates the police force’s determination to apprehend criminals and prevent the distribution of harmful substances within the community..