Thane Police Intensify Security Measures Ahead of Civic Polls; Over 3,000 Licensed Weapons Deposited

Thane:
With municipal elections approaching, the Thane Police have stepped up comprehensive security measures across their jurisdiction to ensure strict enforcement of the model code of conduct and maintain law and order. As part of the preparations, more than 3,000 licensed firearms have been deposited with the police, over 300 individuals have been externed, and advanced surveillance measures, including drone monitoring, have been deployed across police station limits, particularly on polling day.

Enhanced Security Preparations for Municipal Elections

The Thane Police Commissionerate has initiated a wide-ranging security operation in the backdrop of the upcoming municipal elections in the state. To prevent any disruption during the electoral process, the police have taken preventive action by collecting licensed weapons from holders across the region. According to official data, over 3,069 licensed weapons have already been deposited with the police as part of the election-related security protocol.

These measures are aimed at reducing the risk of intimidation, violence, or misuse of firearms during the election period, especially in densely populated urban areas under the Commissionerate’s control.

Multiple Civic Polls Under One Jurisdiction

This year, the Thane Police Commissionerate faces the challenge of providing security for elections to four municipal corporations simultaneously. The cities of Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, Ulhasnagar, and Bhiwandi all fall within the Commissionerate’s jurisdiction. In addition, areas extending from Thane to Badlapur and Bhiwandi are covered under the same policing authority.

The scale and geographical spread of the elections have increased the complexity of security planning. Police officials have acknowledged that ensuring adherence to the code of conduct across multiple municipal areas at the same time requires intensified monitoring and proactive law enforcement measures.

Licensed Weapons Deposited as Preventive Measure

Under the Thane Police Commissionerate, a total of 3,760 arms licenses have been issued. These licenses cover a wide range of individuals, including political figures, members of the social sector, bank security personnel, and others employed in security-related roles. Of these, 3,069 licensed weapons have been deposited with the police ahead of the elections.

The temporary deposit of licensed firearms is a standard preventive step during elections to minimise the possibility of armed incidents and to create a secure environment for voters and election officials.

Drone Surveillance to Enforce Code of Conduct

To prevent violations of the model code of conduct, Thane Police have deployed drone cameras for aerial surveillance across the limits of almost all police stations under the Commissionerate. Officials said the use of drones would be intensified on the day of polling to closely monitor sensitive and crowded areas.

The aerial surveillance is intended to assist ground-level policing by providing real-time visuals, helping officers respond swiftly to any suspicious activity or gatherings that could potentially breach election rules.

Externment and Routine Criminal Checks

As part of preventive policing efforts, the Thane Police have externed 307 individuals from the Commissionerate area during the year. Externment orders are typically issued against individuals considered likely to disturb public order, particularly during sensitive periods such as elections.

In addition, the police are conducting daily checks of criminals on record and carrying out regular police route marches in identified sensitive areas. These visible patrols are aimed at deterring unlawful activities and reassuring the public of a strong police presence during the election period.

 

Seizures During Extensive Enforcement Operations

Between January 1, 2025, and January 7, 2026, the Thane Police carried out extensive enforcement operations as part of broader law-and-order measures. During this period, police seized 27 unlicensed firearms, 37 cartridges, and 142 knives and daggers.

Roadblock operations also led to the seizure of unaccounted property valued at ₹2 crore 16 lakh 89 thousand. In addition, narcotics worth ₹78 crore 35 lakh 60 thousand 458 were recovered during various operations conducted across the Commissionerate area.

These seizures reflect ongoing efforts by the police to curb illegal activities and prevent criminal elements from exploiting the election period.

Public Safety and Election Integrity

Senior officials said the combined use of preventive action, surveillance technology, and enforcement operations is aimed at ensuring a peaceful and transparent electoral process. With multiple municipal elections taking place simultaneously, the focus remains on maintaining public safety while allowing voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or disruption.

What Lies Ahead

As polling day approaches, Thane Police are expected to further intensify monitoring and patrolling, particularly in sensitive and high-footfall areas. Drone surveillance, route marches, and checks on known offenders will continue throughout the election period to ensure that the model code of conduct is strictly followed and that civic polls are conducted in a secure environment.