Special Correspondent
Mumbai : In a sensational development, Navi Mumbai police have dismantled an international drug trafficking network operating across Mumbai and its suburbs. In a stunning revelation, two police constables and a customs superintendent were found to be actively involved in the racket and have been arrested, along with seven others.
The racket was unearthed during the investigation into the death of Gurunath Chichkar, a prominent construction businessman from Navi Mumbai. Chichkar tragically died by suicide last Friday, shooting himself at his residence. In his suicide note, he alleged harassment and extortion at the hands of certain officers from Navi Mumbai’s Anti-Narcotics Cell.
Taking serious note of the accusations, Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe immediately constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT). As the probe deepened, shocking details emerged — revealing the direct involvement of law enforcement officials in facilitating the drug trade.
Investigators found that drugs, primarily hydro marijuana, were being smuggled into India from Thailand and other countries, and distributed across Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. During the operation, police seized contraband worth ₹73.93 lakh, including hydro marijuana valued at ₹2,76,500.
The SIT arrested Sachin Bhalerao, a constable posted at Kharghar Police Station, after discovering his frequent contact with Chichkar. When he realized the investigation was closing in, Bhalerao attempted to flee to his native village, but was tracked down and arrested by Navi Mumbai Crime Branch officials. Along with him, constable Sanjay Phulkar and customs superintendent Prashant Gaur were also taken into custody.
A case has been officially registered at Nerul Police Station, and further investigations are underway. Authorities believe that the network may have deeper international connections, hinting at more arrests in the coming days.
The bust has exposed serious cracks within the law enforcement system and has sparked demands for stringent action against those who betray public trust.
