Salim Dola Suspected of Misleading Investigators as Mumbai Crime Branch Probes Expanding Drug Empire and Underworld Links

According to Crime Branch sources, Dola significantly expanded his drug trafficking operations in Mumbai following the Covid-19 pandemic. Investigators claim that he had been living in Turkey under the alias "Ayhan Sheikh" and was allegedly operating his criminal network from there. The investigation has further revealed that proceeds generated through drug trafficking were used to acquire properties worth more than Rs 100 crore in Dubai and Turkey. The Crime Branch is now gathering details related to these assets, bank accounts, and financial investments.

During questioning, Dola reportedly disclosed information about a synthetic drug manufacturing facility located in Sangli, where nearly 20 consignments of MD drugs were allegedly produced and distributed to various destinations. He also claimed that the network had links to fugitive underworld kingpin Dawood Ibrahim and members of his syndicate. However, police authorities are independently verifying these claims as part of the ongoing investigation.

Crime Branch teams have interrogated Dola in connection with several cases, including investigations linked to drug manufacturing facilities in Satara and Mysuru. In addition, authorities are examining his alleged role in the kidnapping and extortion case involving Andheri-based businessman Sajid Electricwala. During interrogation, Dola also claimed that some of his properties in Dubai had already been sold, a statement that investigators are currently attempting to verify.

Dola's police custody is scheduled to end on Monday, after which he will be produced before a court for further proceedings. Investigating agencies believe that continued interrogation could uncover significant details related to international drug trafficking operations, financial transactions, and underworld connections. According to police sources, verifying Dola's statements has proven time-consuming because he has repeatedly provided information that investigators suspect may be misleading. The case remains under high-level monitoring as authorities continue efforts to unravel the full extent of the alleged criminal network and its international links.