
Mumbai Police Celebrates Women Warriors of Anti-Narcotics Cell This Navratri
As the city prepares for Navratri festivities, Mumbai Police has chosen a unique way to mark the occasion—by honouring its women officers who serve on the frontlines of the Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC). A special video shared on their official X (formerly Twitter) handle has put the spotlight on these courageous women, who not only bust drug rackets but also spread awareness to protect the city’s youth from the growing menace of narcotics.
The video, titled “Breaking the Chain of Drugs”, carries a strong message: that the fight against drugs is not just about raids and arrests, but also about compassion, vigilance, and community engagement.
Women at the Helm of Toughest Battles
For years, the Anti-Narcotics Cell has been regarded as one of the toughest units within Mumbai Police. From intercepting traffickers to cracking complex drug syndicates, the job demands long hours, high risk, and sharp instincts. What makes this Navratri tribute special is that it highlights how women officers are taking the lead in this challenging space.
One of the featured officers, Megha Subedkarpe, who has been serving in the ANC for four years, shared why the presence of women is crucial in this department. “Women officers bring a different kind of trust. We connect with society at a humane level while still enforcing the law. That balance is very important in sensitive cases,” she explained.
Her words underline a larger truth—women officers are not just enforcers, but also caregivers, educators, and bridges between the police force and the community.
Stories from the Field
The video goes beyond statements and brings real-life stories of bravery. One officer recalled how her team cracked a case involving seven kilograms of heroin, while another spoke about busting a factory producing narcotics. Such operations demand secrecy, patience, and meticulous teamwork.
In another gripping incident at Bandra Terminus, officers disguised in civilian clothes tracked a suspect about to board a train to Ajmer. Their patience paid off, and the suspect was apprehended on the train itself, preventing what could have been a major drug transfer.
These examples reflect how ANC teams often work silently in the shadows, ensuring that drugs do not make their way into the streets of Mumbai.
Technology and Teamwork
Modern drug crimes often involve digital trails, making tech-savvy officers an asset. A Mobile Extraction Officer, part of the women’s unit for three years, explained how her role is to trace even the smallest link in narcotics cases. “We carefully examine devices and documents to find hidden connections. Every small clue can lead us to a bigger network,” she shared.
Such roles are vital in an age where traffickers often use encrypted apps, digital payments, and international routes to escape detection. The integration of women officers into these highly technical tasks reflects how policing is evolving with changing crime patterns.
A Message for Families
Beyond the operations, the video sends out a clear warning about the impact of drugs on society. Officers stressed how narcotics affect young people, particularly students. They appealed to parents, especially mothers, to notice changes in their children’s behaviour and intervene early.
One officer remarked, “A mother can sense if something is wrong with her child. That vigilance is the first step in preventing drug addiction. The next generation must be protected because they will represent India’s future.”
Navratri and the Spirit of Women Power
By releasing this video during Navratri, a festival dedicated to the power of the feminine divine, Mumbai Police has drawn a symbolic connection. Just as the nine goddesses of Navratri are celebrated for their courage and protection, these women officers embody strength, resilience, and determination in real life.
The campaign is not just a celebration—it is also a reminder that behind every successful operation, there are officers who put themselves in harm’s way to ensure the city remains safe.
Looking Ahead
As drug networks continue to evolve, the role of the Anti-Narcotics Cell will only grow more demanding. With women officers stepping into leadership roles, Mumbai Police is setting an example of inclusive policing where courage has no gender.
This Navratri, while the city lights up with devotion and joy, the message from the ANC women officers is clear: The fight against drugs is far from over, but with vigilance, awareness, and determination, Mumbai can remain safe and drug-free.