In a shocking development in the ongoing Mumbai drug investigation, the customs department arrested Fallon Guliwala, the wife of actor Ajaz Khan, on Thursday. This follows a raid at their Jogeshwari residence, where narcotics, including approximately 130 grammes of marijuana, were seized. The arrest is part of a larger probe that began with the apprehension of Khan’s office staff member, Suraj Gaud, in October for allegedly ordering 100 grammes of Mephedrone (MD) via courier.
Mephedrone Seizure Triggers Investigation
The investigation into this high-profile case began on October 8 when customs officials intercepted a parcel containing 100 grammes of Mephedrone. The package, reportedly shipped from a European country, was delivered to Ajaz Khan’s Andheri office. The parcel was traced to Gaud, who was arrested soon after.
A customs official elaborated on the initial bust: “We had intelligence about a drug shipment in October. The parcel was tracked to Ajaz Khan’s office upon delivery. Upon inspection, it was confirmed to contain 100 grammes of MDMA, ordered under Gaud’s name.”
Intelligence Leads to Jogeshwari Raid
Following Gaud’s arrest, investigators received actionable intelligence suggesting the involvement of Fallon Guliwala in drug smuggling activities. Acting on this lead, customs officers raided Guliwala’s Jogeshwari residence on Thursday. During the operation, officials discovered approximately 130 grammes of marijuana and other controlled substances.
Actor Ajaz Khan Under Scrutiny
Customs officials have indicated that they intend to question Ajaz Khan regarding his potential knowledge of the narcotics found at his residence and those linked to the parcel delivered to his office. However, Khan was reportedly unavailable for questioning at the time of Guliwala’s arrest.
The agency is now scrutinizing whether Khan was directly involved in the alleged drug operations or if his name was used without his knowledge.
A Widening Probe
The arrest of Guliwala marks a significant escalation in the case, suggesting a broader network of drug smuggling and distribution. Investigators are now working to connect the dots between the seized drugs, the courier shipment, and any potential international links.
Sources within the customs department have indicated that the case could involve a larger network of drug suppliers operating across Mumbai and other cities. The agency is also exploring whether other associates of Khan or Guliwala were complicit in the smuggling activities.
Public Figures and Legal Troubles
Ajaz Khan, a former “Bigg Boss” contestant and actor, is no stranger to controversy. He has previously been embroiled in legal issues, including arrests related to narcotics and public order offenses. This latest incident has once again thrust him into the spotlight, raising questions about the involvement of public figures in drug-related crimes.
Legal Consequences for Guliwala
Following her arrest, Fallon Guliwala faces serious charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. If found guilty, she could face stringent penalties, including a long-term prison sentence and hefty fines. The NDPS Act, known for its stringent provisions, does not offer leniency for those caught with narcotics, regardless of the quantity.
The Role of Intelligence in Drug Busts
The Mumbai customs department has commended the role of intelligence in cracking this case. The initial tip-off about the European drug shipment allowed officials to intercept the parcel before it could enter distribution channels.
“Intelligence is the backbone of successful drug busts. Our team acted swiftly to trace the parcel, and this case underscores the importance of proactive measures in curbing drug trafficking,” a senior customs official remarked.
Implications for Mumbai’s Drug Scene
This case highlights the growing concerns around drug trafficking and distribution in Mumbai, a city often in the spotlight for its association with Bollywood and high-profile scandals. Law enforcement agencies have stepped up their operations to crack down on drug syndicates, but cases like this underline the challenges they continue to face.
With arrests like these, the focus shifts to strengthening intelligence networks and implementing stricter monitoring of drug shipments entering India.
What Lies Ahead?
The investigation is far from over, with customs officials intensifying efforts to identify the source of the drugs and uncover the full extent of the smuggling network. Guliwala’s arrest is expected to provide critical leads that could unravel more significant players involved in the operation.
Meanwhile, Ajaz Khan’s involvement, if any, will remain a focal point of the probe as investigators question his role in the case. The Mumbai drug bust saga continues to unravel, leaving many questions unanswered and the city watching closely for further developments.