Police register FIR and launch search for accused after late-night incident.

The Case

A woman travelling home after attending a party in Chembur has alleged that her cab driver tried to molest her after stopping the vehicle at an isolated location in Navi Mumbai during the early hours of September 6.

According to her complaint, the incident took place around 1:30 am. The driver reportedly stopped the cab on the roadside, saying he wanted to drink water. After getting back into the vehicle, he allegedly moved to the back seat, held the woman’s hand and tried to remove her clothes despite her resistance.

The woman strongly protested, following which the driver allegedly fled from the spot. She then contacted her family and approached the police to report what had happened. Police identified the accused as Mohammed Afzal Sheikh and registered an FIR based on the woman’s complaint. Multiple police teams have reportedly been formed to trace and arrest him.

Investigators are using technical information and other leads to locate the accused. Police have said the complaint is being taken seriously and that appropriate legal action will follow. The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of passengers travelling alone in cabs during late-night hours. Police are continuing their investigation into the case.

Thousands of devotees join colourful processions as towering idols arrive in Navi Mumbai.

The Grand Ganesh Celebration

With Ganesh Chaturthi just around the corner, the festive spirit has already taken over Navi Mumbai. Vashi and CBD Belapur witnessed enthusiastic celebrations as devotees gathered to welcome two towering Ganesh idols.

In Vashi Sector 17, the 12-foot idol of Navsala Pavnara Maharaja arrived on September 4 amid the beats of dhol-tasha and chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya.” Nearly 3,000 devotees took part in the welcome procession. The idol, depicting Lord Ganesha seated on an elephant, will be installed in a grand replica of a royal palace. The mandal is celebrating its 43rd year.

Meanwhile, CBD Belapur Sector 2 welcomed the CBD Cha Raja, a 12.5-foot idol prepared by renowned sculptor Bhendkar from Chembur. A large number of devotees gathered to seek Bappa’s blessings during the arrival ceremony.

The mandal, now entering its 44th year, is creating a replica of the famous Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura as this year’s main attraction.

Beyond the grandeur, the celebrations also reflect Navi Mumbai’s spirit of unity. People from different communities come together to participate in aarti, puja and havan at the mandal. As the city prepares for Ganesh Chaturthi, these celebrations have brought communities together and set the mood for a festival filled with devotion, tradition and togetherness.

Ahead of Ganeshotsav, police issue safety guidelines to protect public peace and aircraft operations.

The Protocols

As preparations for Ganeshotsav gather pace, Navi Mumbai Police have asked Ganesh mandals to keep celebrations safe and peaceful by avoiding loud DJ systems and laser lights during processions.

Police said excessive DJ music can disturb senior citizens, children and patients. Mandals have been encouraged to use traditional musical instruments instead, particularly during Ganesh idol arrival and immersion processions.

Authorities have also warned that sound systems crossing the permitted noise limits will not be allowed. Those who ignore the rules could face legal action. The police have issued a special warning about laser lights in the Panvel area because of its proximity to Navi Mumbai International Airport. Strong laser beams can temporarily affect a pilot’s vision and create a serious safety risk, especially when aircraft are taking off or landing.

According to officials, the airport operates around the clock, with a large number of flight movements every day. Police said there have already been complaints from pilots about laser lights during aircraft approaches. Deputy Commissioner of Police Rashmi Nandedkar has directed local police stations to inform Ganesh mandals about the restrictions while granting loudspeaker permissions.

Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe said devotees should enjoy the festival with enthusiasm while also respecting public safety and the peace of residents. The police have urged organisers to cooperate with the guidelines so that Ganeshotsav can remain festive, traditional and safe for everyone.