27 May,2024 11:54 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational Image
In a crackdown on smuggling activities, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Mumbai Zonal Unit (MZU) seized a staggering 53.64 lakh foreign-branded cigarette sticks worth more than Rs 8 crore, reported news agency ANI.
DRI Mumbai seizes foreign cigarettes: Mastermind and his associate arrested
According to DRI, the operation, which targeted a syndicate operating in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai areas of Maharashtra, resulted in the apprehension of the mastermind and his associate, along with the contraband, reported ANI.
"Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Mumbai Zonal Unit (MZU) simultaneously searched multiple premises in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, being operated by a syndicate purported to be involved in the smuggling of cigarettes and other contraband DRI," DRI said, reported ANI.
ALSO READ
Ajit Pawar-led NCP to contest MLC election from Mumbai Teachers constituency
Shiv Sena's Shivaji Shendge to contest polls from Mumbai Teachers' constituency
Mid-Day Top News: Maharashtra assembly polls likely only after Diwali and more
Special | Maharashtra assembly elections: Who’s the real NCP in Mumbra-Kalwa?
Maharashtra assembly elections: Want unity, not CM post, says Uddhav Thackeray
"This action of DRI resulted in the seizure of 53.64 lakh foreign-branded cigarette sticks valued at Rs 8.04 crore. The mastermind of the syndicate along with his associate was apprehended along with the contraband," it added, reported ANI.
DRI Mumbai seizes foreign cigarettes: Other cases
On May 22, the Anti Narcotics Cell of Mumbai's Worli unit arrested a Nigerian national and seized drugs worth Rs 80 lakh from his possession from Madanpura in South Mumbai, officials said, reported ANI.
The cell recovered 200 grams of MD and 50 grams of cocaine from the 50-year-old Nigerian national.
According to the information received from the Mumbai Crime Branch, while patrolling in the Madanpura area of Nagpada, a person was seen standing in a suspicious condition.
"When the police went near him and investigated, cocaine drugs were recovered from him," Mumbai police said, reported ANI.
A case has been registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS Act).
The arrested accused was presented in the court where the court sent the accused to police custody till today.
(With inputs from ANI)