The Navi Mumbai Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) has detained a habitual offender identified as Rajan Bala Rathod, a resident of Mankhurd, under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PIT NDPS Act). The arrest took place on Wednesday, May 27, following which he was lodged at Yerwada Jail in Pune for a period of one year.
Background of the Accused
According to Sandeep Nigade, Senior Inspector of the ANC, the accused Rajan Rathod had previously been arrested in October last year in Kalamboli. He was found in possession of 1,800 grams of ganja (opium) and 15 grams of heroin, with a combined estimated value of around Rs 10 lakh. Following that arrest, Rathod was held in judicial custody at Taloja prison for five months before being released on bail in March this year.
History of Criminal Activities
Nigade further stated that Rathod is a habitual offender with multiple cases registered against him. Four First Information Reports (FIRs) under the NDPS Act have been filed against him at various police stations in Navi Mumbai. In addition, five FIRs under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) are registered against him for serious criminal offenses, including attempt to murder, dacoity, and affray. The accused used to procure drugs from suppliers in Mumbai and subsequently sell the contraband in Navi Mumbai.
Legal Action Under PIT NDPS Act
Given his repeated offenses, a proposal was submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs in Mumbai seeking to arrest Rathod under the provisions of the PIT NDPS Act. The proposal received approval, leading to his arrest on May 27. Thereafter, he was transferred to Yerwada Jail in Pune, where he will remain for one year under the detention order. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to curbing drug trafficking and habitual criminal activities in the region.
