Nigerians back under Navi Mumbai police scanner

A couple of months ago, the Navi Mumbai police had undertaken a massive review of the Nigerians in the city to check their antecedents. That drive, however, fizzled out after some time. It is likely to be renewed now.

The arrest of six Nigerians following violent clashes among them at an unauthorised bar in Vashi in April this year and the attack on a cobbler at Vashi railway station in December last year over payment issues, had already brought the Nigerian community and those who harbour them illegally, under the police scanner.

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A couple of months ago, the city police had undertaken a massive review of the African nationals in the city to check their antecedents. That drive, however, fizzled out after some time. It is likely to be renewed now.

The police are now planning to not just check them but also crackdown on home owners who rent out their premises to them without informing the police.

Deputy commissioner of police (crime) Suresh Mengde said, “There have been reports of people renting out their houses at a premium to African nationals. We do not have a problem if all procedures are followed. If they are not, we will take action.”

Mengde said, “We are not against the presence of any foreign national in the city if he or she has valid documents. Illegal immigrants or those indulging in violence will be dealt with appropriately.”