Navi Mumbai (18 Sept 2025) - In a landmark move, the Navi Mumbai police have invoked the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) for the first time against drug peddlers. The case was registered against a gang of six accused who were arrested in July for trafficking Mephedrone.

The action comes after the Government of Maharashtra recent notification on July 8, which amended the MCOCA to include drug-related activities like manufacturing, possession, and sale under the purview of Organised Crime. The move is part of a state-wide crackdown on narcotics.

The initial case was filed on July 11 at the Rabale MIDC police station after a raid at Omkar Apartment, Digha. Police seized 252.3 grams of Mephedrone, with an estimated value of Rs 75.69 lakh, and arrested six individuals. Investigations revealed that the gang, led by Shantabai Karandekar, had been operating a large-scale drug racket for several years and was also involved in other serious crimes.

Navi Mumbai Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe directed the invocation of MCOCA provisions to ensure the accused are not easily released on bail. The police have also appealed to the public to provide information on drug trafficking to their dedicated helpline number, 8828112112, assuring the confidentiality of informants.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities suggest more arrests are possible.

This is seen as a significant step in intensifying the crackdown on organized narcotics networks in the region.