Fear Spreads from Delhi to Mumbai: Bhopal’s Irani Dera a Hub of Criminal Activity, Foreign Currency Recovered

Bhopal’s Irani Dera, notorious for criminal activities, has emerged as a hub for organized crime spanning from Delhi to Mumbai. Early Sunday, Bhopal police conducted a major raid on the settlement, recovering foreign currency and arresting 32 individuals, including 10 women.

Police Raid and Arrests
A team of around 150 personnel in 40 vehicles raided the Irani Dera in Bhopal’s outskirts. The police were reportedly attacked by residents, but responded decisively, successfully arresting the suspects. Authorities described the settlement as heavily fortified, with women often serving as shields for the criminals.

Criminal Network Across Cities
Residents of the Irani Dera are involved in theft, fraud, and extortion across multiple cities. They reportedly impersonate CBI officers and journalists to intimidate victims and evade law enforcement. Investigations revealed that the gang also traffics stolen goods internationally, including smuggling looted mobile phones to Dubai via Mumbai.

Foreign Currency and Evidence
During the raid, American and Iranian currency were recovered from the homes of the suspects, suggesting links to international criminal activity. Police are continuing investigations to track down additional members of this organized network.

Historical Background
The Irani Dera residents trace their ancestry to Central Asian nomads who migrated to India from Persia. Historically engaged in horse trading, stone polishing, and weapon crafting, the community has gradually become involved in criminal enterprises over generations.

Bhopal police continue to monitor the Dera closely, aiming to dismantle its criminal network and curb its influence across India.

Related