28 July,2026 08:40 AM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash Singh
Ashish Ashok Yadav, Suraj Kumar, Pawan Gaud and Girish Patwa. Pics/By Special Arrangement
The Navi Mumbai Crime Branch has busted an alleged industrial theft syndicate operating in Taloja, arresting four persons, including the alleged kingpin. Seven persons were initially detained for questioning, of whom four were arrested after the probe yielded evidence against them.
During the operation, crime branch officers intercepted a pickup vehicle allegedly carrying a large quantity of stolen copper and seized the consignment. A WagonR car allegedly used by the gang to commit thefts and transport stolen property was also impounded.
Seven persons were initially detained for questioning, of whom four were arrested. Representation pic/istock
Prerna Katte, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crime), Navi Mumbai, said, "The gang is suspected to have targeted industrial establishments in Taloja and adjoining areas, stealing copper and other valuable material before disposing of it through illegal channels. The seized material is believed to be linked to recent theft cases reported in the region."
Katte said members of the gang are facing more than seven theft cases registered at Uran Police Station. Investigators are also examining their possible involvement in similar offences registered at the Kalamboli and JNPT police stations, as well as in other unsolved industrial theft cases across Navi Mumbai and the neighbouring Raigad district. The probe is also focused on identifying those who allegedly purchased the stolen copper and tracing its movement.
The four accused have been remanded to police custody till July 28 for further investigation. Crime Branch officials believe sustained interrogation could lead to further recoveries, help solve several pending industrial theft cases, and identify others allegedly associated with the racket.
