Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr18: In a major crackdown against narcotics-related crime, Mumbai Police demolished the residence and a gym linked to alleged drug peddler Yaseen Qureshi, also known as Tasu, in Vikhroli, while ordering his externment from city limits.

Qureshi, 48, a resident of Tagore Nagar, is among 50 individuals from Mumbai’s eastern region who have been externed as part of a wider crackdown. Police records indicate he has faced multiple criminal cases between 2014 and 2026, including several under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. His externment, effective from March, will remain in force for 18 months.

According to officials, Qureshi had long been under surveillance for alleged involvement in drug trafficking. Investigations suggested that his residence had been converted into a base for illegal operations, with a high-end gym on the premises reportedly funded through proceeds from narcotics trade.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Hemraj Rajput stated that the structure—a ground-plus-three-storey building—was constructed illegally using funds linked to criminal activities. Following coordination with civic authorities, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, portions of the property were demolished.

Authorities said the crackdown was part of a broader strategy to dismantle infrastructure supporting the drug trade. Investigators alleged that Qureshi had been actively distributing narcotics across multiple parts of Mumbai, particularly targeting vulnerable youth populations.

Police emphasized that the externment order prohibits Qureshi from entering Mumbai and surrounding districts for the specified period. Officials added that such measures are intended to send a clear message that involvement in organized crime could result not only in arrest but also in the loss of illegally acquired assets and displacement from one’s area of operation.