Nagpur: In a decisive escalation against organised crime, the Nagpur Rural Police have invoked the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against two criminal gangs allegedly involved in drug trafficking, illegal arms possession, and violent activities across the district.
The action is being seen as a strong message from law enforcement agencies against syndicates attempting to establish networks of fear and unlawful trade in and around Nagpur.
Gold Rate
Apr 272026 - Time 10.30Hrs
In the first case registered by MIDC Butibori Police Station, a three-member gang led by 24-year-old Abhinash Verma has been booked under MCOCA provisions. His associates have been identified as Vijay Mahakalkar (33) and Jangatsingh Dudhani (41), a resident of Raipur.
The case stems from an April 2 operation by the Local Crime Branch, during which Mahakalkar was apprehended from a vehicle. Police recovered nearly 1 kg of ganja along with a loaded firearm, pointing to the gang’s involvement in both narcotics distribution and illegal arms circulation.
Following a detailed review of the gang’s criminal history and activities, a proposal to invoke MCOCA was submitted and subsequently approved by the Special Inspector General of Police, Nagpur Range, leading to the addition of stringent charges in the case.
In a parallel crackdown, Deolapar Police Station registered a separate case under MCOCA against a five-member interstate gang allegedly operating across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
The gang is reportedly led by Danish Abdul Gafur Afridi (25), a resident of New Anand Nagar in Madhya Pradesh. Investigators suspect the group’s involvement in organised criminal activities spanning multiple jurisdictions, including narcotics trade and other serious offences.
Police officials said invoking MCOCA allows for stricter legal action, including extended detention, attachment of properties, and tougher bail conditions. The move reflects a strategic shift towards dismantling organised crime networks rather than merely addressing individual offences.
Authorities indicated that further investigations are underway to uncover the full extent of these gangs’ operations, including financial trails, supply chains, and possible links with larger criminal syndicates.
With these actions, Nagpur Rural Police have signalled a zero-tolerance approach, aiming to curb the growing nexus of drugs, illegal weapons, and violence that threatens law and order in the region.
