The Navi Mumbai Crime Branch has dismantled a ganja smuggling racket operating in Kalamboli, leading to the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of a significant quantity of narcotics. Acting on a reliable tip-off received by Police Constable Omkar Bhalerao, officials learned that ganja was being sold near DD Dhaba on Roadpali Link Road in Sector 16.

A special team from the Central Crime Branch, led by Police Inspector Sunil Shinde and operating under the supervision of ACP Ajaykumar Landge, immediately launched a planned operation. When the suspects arrived at the location in a Swift Dzire car, police intercepted the vehicle and conducted a search, which resulted in the recovery of 5.5 kg of ganja.

In addition to the narcotics, the police confiscated the suspects’ car and four mobile phones, bringing the total value of the seized items to approximately Rs 9.90 lakh. The arrested individuals were taken into custody at the spot.

Following the operation, a case was registered at Kalamboli Police Station under Sections 20(b) and 8(c) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Officials stated that the crackdown is part of an intensified effort to curb drug-related activities across Navi Mumbai and ensure a drug-free environment in the region.

Investigations are underway to determine the source of the ganja and identify any additional members connected to the network. Police indicated that more arrests are likely as the probe continues.

A series of thefts marred the two-day Rolling Loud India music festival held in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, after four attendees reported that their gold chains—collectively valued at Rs 10.50 lakh—were stolen amid the massive crowd. The incidents occurred on Sunday evening, between 6 pm and 10 pm, during peak performances when thousands of fans had gathered near the stages.

According to police officials, the victims stated that their chains were forcibly pulled off their necks in the dense crowd without their notice. All four individuals have lodged formal complaints at the Kharghar Police Station, prompting authorities to begin an investigation. Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage, analyzing crowd movement, and checking for known pickpocket groups that typically target large gatherings.

The thefts have raised concerns about the security arrangements at the international festival, which saw heavy footfall throughout the weekend. This is not the first time such incidents have been reported at major concerts in the Mumbai region, with similar cases emerging during previous large-scale events.

Besides the thefts, attendees took to social media to express dissatisfaction over event logistics, particularly the significant distance between the two main stages, which made moving between performances difficult amid the crowd.

The police have assured attendees that efforts are underway to identify the culprits and recover the stolen jewellery. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

Civic body cites likely enforcement of election code; organizers express disappointment.

The Permission

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has rejected permission for the annual Maghi Ganeshotsav at Ranjan Devi Maidan in Koparkhairane, citing the likelihood of the Model Code of Conduct coming into force ahead of the upcoming civic elections. The festival, organised every year by Kesari Pratishthan, was scheduled to take place on January 22, 2026, with stage and decoration work proposed from January 12 to 25.

In a letter dated November 21, NMMC Assistant Commissioner Bharat Dhande informed the organizers that approval could not be granted due to the expected enforcement of election rules during the proposed dates. The civic body also mentioned that the ground may be required for election-related arrangements, including polling booths, making it unsuitable for a large cultural event.

Kesari Pratishthan expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, stating that the festival holds deep religious importance for local residents, who eagerly wait for the annual celebration. Members noted that the refusal has hurt public sentiments and appealed to the administration to reconsider the decision.

Organizers added that Maghi Ganeshotsav has been a long-standing tradition in Koparkhairane and attracts significant community participation. They remain hopeful that a revised decision may allow the event to proceed as planned.

However, if permission continues to be withheld, the organizers may be forced to shift the venue or scale down the celebrations, affecting thousands of devotees who participate every year.