Mumbai Police’s ‘Free Mumbai’ campaign to curb drug trafficking and consumption continues at full pace. In a major crackdown, law enforcement has intensified its efforts to dismantle drug networks in the city. Over the past 13 months, more than 7,730 individuals have been arrested in drug-related cases, with drugs worth over ₹497 crore seized.
In 2024 alone, police registered more than 7,247 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and arrested over 7,198 individuals. This year, authorities have already registered 563 cases and arrested 532 people linked to drug offenses. Additionally, in the past two years, more than 95 foreign nationals have been arrested in connection with drug-related crimes.
To enhance the effectiveness of the NDPS Act, Mumbai Police has started reviewing drug-related cases weekly instead of the previous monthly or quarterly reviews. This initiative aims to ensure swift legal action and prevent delays in tackling drug-related crimes. The crackdown has led to the arrest of hundreds of drug peddlers, suppliers, and dealers across the city.
Strict Action is Essential to Break Drug Networks
Senior police official Kailash Ahwan emphasized that the rapid spread of drug networks in Mumbai required a stringent crackdown. To make this campaign more effective, the police have actively involved the public while maintaining the confidentiality of informants. This campaign is being conducted across all five regional zones under the supervision of additional commissioners, 13 deputy commissioners, divisional assistant commissioners, and local police stations.
Public Urged to Report Drug-Related Activities
Mumbai Police has appealed to citizens to report any drug trafficking or illegal drug use in their vicinity. Officials believe that public participation is crucial in making the city drug-free. Prakash Chaudhary, associated with the NGO ‘Nasha Mukt Mumbai,’ stated that given the rising drug threat in the city, this campaign is a significant step. He added that strict implementation of the NDPS Act and the newly introduced helpline could strengthen the fight against drugs.
New Helpline Number Introduced for Drug-Related Complaints
To encourage public reporting, Mumbai Police has launched a new 10-digit helpline number, 981911222, where individuals can send an SMS or call to report drug-related activities. Additionally, citizens can also contact the police via helpline numbers 100 and 112 or use the landline number 022-22641752 for further assistance.
“Our top priority is to make Mumbai drug-free. We have adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drugs, and significant progress has been made. We urge people to report any illegal drug sales, consumption, or transportation by reaching out to their local police station, Mumbai Police’s Anti-Narcotics Cell, or the helpline numbers.”
Satya Narayan Chaudhary, Joint CP (Law and Order), Mumbai Police.
