Mumbai’s Dark Festival Secret: How Five Thieves Were Finally Caught in a Daring Crime Bust
DEEP DIVES 
During the vibrant Ganesh immersion festival in Mumbai, a shadow lurked amid the celebrations. Five men exploited the chaos to steal mobile phones, striking fear into the hearts of unsuspecting festival-goers. This incident marked a significant milestone as it was the first time Mumbai witnessed a conviction under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) law targeting petty organised crime.
The Crime and the Investigation
On September 20, 2024, amidst the crowd at Girgaon Chowpatty, a 39-year-old man named Baser Shaikh reported his phone stolen. Soon, dozens of similar complaints overwhelmed the police station, prompting swift action.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mohit Kumar Garg, formed a special investigation team. By meticulously analyzing CCTV footage and tracking clues, the team traced the thieves across Maharashtra and Gujarat. The accused were:
- Sanjay Raman Kharwa
- Sanjay Suresh Kharwa
- Sumesh Rajendra Lohkare
- Laltu Tunu De
- Akash Vijay Mehra
These men, residents of Kamathipura and Girgaon, were notorious for petty crimes. They had stolen a total of 42 mobile phones and even a two-wheeler, all of which were recovered by the police. Their method involved exploiting festival chaos to snatch valuables with chilling precision.
The Legal Breakthrough
This case stands out not only for the crime but for the legal breakthrough it represents. Section 112 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, introduced in 2023, specifically targets organised petty crime gangs. Key features of this law include:
- Streamlined prosecution process
- Restriction on prolonged witness cross-examinations
- Ensuring swift and effective justice
The first conviction under this law sends a powerful message: organised thefts during large public events will no longer go unpunished.
Impact and Future Outlook
This case reveals the darker side of Mumbai’s festivals where moments of joy can quickly turn into fear. It also highlights the relentless dedication of law enforcement agencies to protect citizens and maintain order. Thanks to sharper police work and new legislation, the shadows that once concealed these criminals are fading.
Stay tuned to DEEP DIVES for more updates on this and other important stories.
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