Mira Road Shootout Reveals Hafta Syndicate Targeting Local Hawkers
The recent shooting in Mira Road highlights the ongoing crime syndicate exploiting hawkers for protection money
Mira Road, India, Hawkers, Hafta, Organized Crime
Mira Road: So, there was this shocking incident where a guy named Shams Tabrez Ansari, or Sonu, got shot dead. It happened on December 3rd, and now everyone’s talking about it. The police are still hunting for the shooter, but this whole thing has brought attention to a crime syndicate that’s been shaking down hawkers for protection money.
Just a day after the murder, the cops nabbed two brothers, Yusuf and Saif, who allegedly ordered the hit. Apparently, Sonu and Yusuf were once friends, but things soured after Yusuf faced a complaint for misbehaving with a woman. Sonu, who sold eyewear near the railway station, was in direct competition with Yusuf, who was collecting “hafta” from hawkers.
The rivalry got intense, especially since both were trying to make a living in the same area. On top of the fees they had to pay to the authorities, hawkers were also coughing up between Rs.5,000 to Rs.10,000 just to operate. Yusuf was struggling financially, and with his brother Saif and the shooter, they decided to take Sonu out of the picture.
Initially, Yusuf was supposed to do the shooting, but they changed plans to keep him out of trouble. It’s wild how hawkers are ignoring the rules about where they can set up shop. They’re taking over public spaces, and it seems like they’re paying off local officials to avoid getting kicked out.
Interestingly, there are about 8,728 registered hawkers in Mira Bhayandar, but the real number is likely much higher because many are operating illegally. It’s a tough situation for everyone involved.