MUMBAI: A significant security breach unfolded in Mumbai’s restricted Navy Nagar area in Colaba when an unidentified individual, dressed in a naval uniform, deceived a junior sailor on guard duty and absconded with an INSAS rifle and two magazines containing 40 live cartridges. The incident, reported last Saturday, has raised concerns about security protocols in the military zone, prompting a multi-agency investigation.
According to sources, the impostor approached the sentry around 7:30 pm, claiming to be a naval officer sent to relieve the guard. Trusting the stranger’s credentials, the sailor handed over his service weapon and ammunition before returning to his hostel. Approximately an hour later, the guard returned to retrieve a personal item and discovered the impostor had vanished with the rifle and cartridges. After a three-hour search yielded no results, the sailor alerted his superiors, triggering an immediate response.
The Indian Navy launched a comprehensive search operation in the vicinity but has yet to locate the suspect or recover the stolen items. The Cuffe Parade police have registered a theft case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities are analyzing CCTV footage from the area and have created a suspect sketch based on the guard’s description to aid the investigation.
The incident has drawn the attention of multiple agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), reflecting the gravity of the breach in a high-security military area. The Navy has also initiated an internal inquiry to examine the lapse and review security measures at Navy Nagar.
This breach underscores vulnerabilities in restricted zones and has sparked discussions about strengthening protocols to prevent similar incidents. The investigation continues as authorities work to apprehend the suspect and recover the stolen INSAS rifle and ammunition.
Impostor in Naval Uniform Steals Rifle, Ammunition in Mumbai’s Navy Nagar
