Overview
- Joint raids by Navi Mumbai and Thane police in Dombivli’s Palava/Khoni area on Saturday resulted in the detention of 24 Nigerian nationals and the arrest of the prime accused in the Vashi case, 34-year-old Paul Chigbata Onuoch.
- The operation follows a May 19 Anti-Narcotics Cell action in Vashi that seized 252.5 grams of high-grade cocaine and arrested three Nigerian nationals, which generated intelligence about suspects hiding in Dombivli.
- Police carried out simultaneous searches across multiple locations with teams ranging from dozens to roughly 100 personnel involved, reflecting a coordinated cross-jurisdictional effort.
- Authorities are verifying passports and visas, questioning those detained, and have initiated deportation procedures for anyone found to be residing illegally while investigations continue.
- Local residents welcomed the crackdown and urged probes into landlords and agents who rent without checks, and officials say the action could prompt further arrests as links to the wider trafficking network are pursued.