Roorkee taluka in Uttarakhand has gained notoriety as a significant hub for heroin distribution nationwide, with Mumbai being a major destination. The Mumbai Anti Narcotics Cell, particularly the Kandivali Unit, has played a pivotal role in cracking down on drug-related activities in the area, apprehending over seven individuals in the past two years.
In a recent breakthrough, the Anti Narcotics Cell apprehended four individuals and seized approximately 3.1 kilograms of heroin, valued at Rs 1.25 crore, from their possession. The accused, identified as Ajay Saroj (27), Zakir Ahamad (27), Shahrukh Shehzad (35), and Navshad Safdar (40), are residents of Roorkee Taluka.
Intelligence led the officers to set up a trap, resulting in the arrest of Navshad and Shahrukh from Shankar Mandir Lane in Kandivali on April 20th, along with the seizure of drugs. Further investigation led to a raid at a residence in Gopchar Pada, Virar, where Ajay and Zakir were apprehended and approximately 3.1 kilograms of heroin, worth Rs 1.25 crore in total, were confiscated.
Investigation revealed that all the accused hail from the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand and have been involved in this illegal activity for years, although this marks their initial arrest in Mumbai. Reports indicate Shukrunda Village in Uttarakhand as the origin of three of the arrested individuals.
Prior to this incident, Mumbai Police, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies from other states, have apprehended individuals in drug-related cases, with a notable proportion originating from Roorkee taluka and specific locales within it, including Shukrunda Village.
The modus operandi of these accused involves renting a house in the city where they temporarily reside. Upon selling the drugs, they retreat, and another group assumes control of the rented property. Numerous individuals either arrive with drugs or procure them from Ratlam and Rajasthan upon reaching the area. Those transporting drugs to Mumbai operate on a commission basis, delivering the goods before returning via bus travel.
The Shahu Nagar police recently apprehended an individual with heroin drugs, who incidentally turned out to be the cousin brother of the arrested accused Navshad.
The accused have been booked and arrested under various sections of the Narcotics Act, presented before the court, and subsequently remanded to police custody.
