NESCO concert drug case: 11th arrest made as probe deepens

Representational Image

In the NESCO music concert drug overdose case, the Vanrai Police have made the 11th arrest, tightening their grip on the alleged drug supply network.

Live-in Partner of Key Supplier Held

According to police sources, the arrested accused, Ziya Jacob (31), a resident of Mira Road, is the live-in partner of the main drug supplier who allegedly provided narcotics to previously arrested accused Ayush Sahitya.

Ziya was apprehended from Mira Road on Wednesday following a detailed probe into the financial trail linked to the drug transactions.

Money Trail Leads to Arrest

Investigators revealed that during scrutiny of Ayush Sahitya's bank transactions, several suspicious accounts surfaced. These accounts were allegedly used for payments related to drug purchases.

Police found that:

- Drugs, including pills consumed at the NESCO event, were allegedly procured from an absconding accused identified as Mark.

- Payments for these drugs were transferred to Ziya Jacob's bank account, indicating that she acted as a financial conduit.

Absconding Supplier ‘Mark' Under Scanner

The prime accused, Mark, is currently absconding and is believed to have fled abroad. Police teams are working to trace his whereabouts.

Sources further indicate that Mark is a major drug supplier catering to clients across Mumbai, Thane, and nearby regions. He allegedly operated a distribution network using:

- Couriers and porters for delivery

- Online payment channels, often routing transactions through his own or Ziya's bank accounts

Court Production Today

The arrested accused, Ziya Jacob, is set to be produced before a court today, where the police are likely to seek custody for further investigation.

Probe Expands Into Larger Drug Syndicate

Officials believe the case points to a larger, well-organised drug syndicate, with more arrests likely as the investigation progresses.

Strict Warning Issued by Mumbai CP

Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti has taken a firm stand following the NESCO concert drug overdose case, signalling zero tolerance for violations in event permissions.

"No concert or event in the city can sell tickets unless all necessary permissions are obtained. If anyone does so, it amounts to cheating the public. Strict legal action will be taken against such organisers under relevant sections of the law."