Mumbai Police Enforces Ban on Flying Drones, Aircraft, and Paragliders Until January 18
Written by Sanjay Kumar
News Highlights
- Mumbai Police enforces a drone ban under Section 144 to enhance security during the festive season.
- Section 144 invoked to restrict drones, paragliders, and more, ensuring public safety till January 18.
- Maharashtra Excise seizes ₹80 lakh worth of foreign liquor ahead of Christmas and New Year; three arrests made.
In a bid to ensure public safety during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Mumbai Police have issued prohibitory orders, invoking Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The ban, effective until January 18, encompasses the flying of drones, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, paragliders, para motors, hand gliders, and hot air balloons over the city.
Authorities expressed concerns that potential misuse of these airborne objects by terrorist or anti-national elements could pose a threat to VVIPs, public safety, and law and order in the bustling metropolis. The ban aims to mitigate risks associated with the use of such devices for malicious purposes.
Exceptions to the ban include aerial surveillance by law enforcement and specific written permission from the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations). The move comes as a preventive measure to safeguard against potential security breaches during the festive period when large crowds are expected to gather across the city.
In a related development, the Maharashtra Excise Department conducted a raid on a warehouse located on Solapur Street in Mumbai’s Dana Bunder locality. The operation, carried out on Wednesday, resulted in the seizure of 580 bottles of foreign liquor valued at approximately ₹80 lakhs.
Three individuals were apprehended by the police in connection with the illegal liquor stock. Deputy Commissioner of the State Excise Department, Konkan Division, Prasad Surve, stated, “To curb the transportation and sale of illegal liquor during Christmas and New Year, multiple squads have been formed and deployed. Acting on information about an illegal liquor stock arriving from Delhi for sale in Haryana, a raid was conducted, leading to the recovery of 580 bottles of 17 different brands.”
Surve further explained that trucks used in transporting the illegal liquor were seized, and a case has been registered. The investigation into the matter is ongoing to ensure stringent action against those involved in the illicit trade.
As Mumbai gears up for the festive season, these measures by law enforcement aim to create a secure environment for residents and visitors alike. Authorities urge the public to cooperate with the restrictions and report any suspicious activities to ensure a safe and joyous celebration.
