The population of Nigerian citizens in Diva area has reached about a thousand, and few of them are residing illegally, as per the complaints received from Diva residents. Many Nigerian gangs have established themselves in Thane district. The National Hindu Movement, will hold an agitation on 19th December between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. opposite the Diva (E) railway station to demand for the expulsion of Nigerian gangs possessing criminal background indulging in sale of narcotics, thefts, deceptions, etc.
Mahadev Bansode, a social worker from Diva said, “There is a feeling of insecurity among Diva residents due to the behaviour of the Nigerian gangs indulging in activities like trading in narcotics, prostitution, openly consuming alcoholic drinks. Nigerians pay excessive rents and stay in the societies and terraces. No proper background verification is done before renting them accommodation. Thane Police had issued notices to the landlords for submitting the information about the tenants. However, many landlords are not adhering to the norms therefore action must be taken against them.”
After the Nigerian Consulate opposed expulsion of their citizens when they possess valid documents, senior officers are trying to regularise the matter. However, few Nigerians are involved in banking frauds; few of them are staying in other cities even after the expiry of their visa. It is necessary to find out the nature of visa the Nigerians are holding.
