Suspects detained during a security drill at NMACC; one found with a firearm, both allegedly carrying fake PMO identity cards. Mumbai Police probe the motive and clarify that the incident has no connection with the Prime Minister’s visit.
By Our Staff Reporter
MUMBAI
In a major security scare ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Mumbai, two men were detained by Mumbai Police after they were allegedly found attempting to enter a high-security event venue using suspicious government identification documents.
The incident took place late Monday night during a security protocol drill at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), where Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) on Tuesday evening.
According to Mumbai Police, the matter came to light when security personnel noticed a man behaving suspiciously inside the premises. The individual was subsequently detained for questioning. His associate, described as his bodyguard, was also taken into custody after police discovered that he was carrying a firearm.
During the verification process, the first suspect identified himself as a 24-year-old man named Rohan Parekh and claimed to be an official associated with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). However, further checks reportedly revealed that the identity card in his possession was allegedly fake.
Police said that the suspects had attempted to gain access to the venue by using a suspicious government identification card. Authorities are now examining how the men obtained the documents and what their intended purpose was.
Firearm Recovered During Security Check
Mumbai Police confirmed that a firearm was recovered from one of the detained men. According to officials, the weapon was found to be legally licensed.
In a statement, police said that three men had allegedly used a suspicious government identification document and forced their way past security at Jio World Plaza in BKC while one of them was armed with a firearm. An FIR has been registered in connection with the incident.
Officials clarified that although a firearm was involved, the weapon was licensed and the incident did not appear to be directly connected to Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled programme.
“The weapon has been found to be licensed and two persons are arrested in this regard,” police said, adding that the incident occurred a day before the Prime Minister’s visit and had no connection with his arrival in Mumbai.
Security Alert at the Event Venue
The incident prompted heightened security measures around the NMACC and adjoining areas ahead of the Prime Minister’s programme.
Security agencies have increased checks at the venue, with particular attention being given to individuals attempting to enter restricted areas. The incident also led authorities to review access-control arrangements and identification procedures being followed at the event location.
The NMACC, located in the high-security BKC area, is hosting the Global Fintech Fest 2026, one of the world’s prominent annual conferences focused on financial technology and innovation.
Officials said that security personnel remain on alert to ensure that all protocols are strictly followed before the Prime Minister’s arrival.
Mumbai Crime Branch Takes Over Investigation
Given the seriousness of the incident, the Mumbai Crime Branch has taken over the investigation. Investigators are questioning the detained men to determine their motive and establish the circumstances under which they entered the premises.
Authorities are also examining the background of the suspects, the authenticity of the identification documents and the circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm.
Investigators are expected to determine whether the men were acting independently or whether the incident was part of a larger attempt to breach security at the high-profile venue.
Police officials have urged the public and event attendees to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to security personnel.
About the Global Fintech Fest 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Global Fintech Fest 2026 at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai.
The four-day conference is expected to bring together leading figures from the global fintech industry, including policymakers, financial institutions, technology companies, investors, regulators and innovators.
This year’s theme is:
“Potential to Impact: Agentic AI, Tokenisation, Quantum – Trusted, Connected, Global Systems for Inclusive Finance.”
The conference will focus on emerging technologies and their potential to transform financial services, improve accessibility and create more connected and inclusive financial systems.
The event is expected to draw significant participation from India and abroad, making security arrangements around the venue a major priority for authorities.
Police Step Up Vigilance
Following the security scare, Mumbai Police and other security agencies have intensified surveillance in and around the event venue.
Officials are reviewing access points, identification procedures and security arrangements to prevent unauthorised individuals from entering restricted areas.
The incident has also highlighted the importance of stringent verification of government identification cards at high-profile public events attended by senior political leaders and dignitaries.
While the investigation remains underway, police have reiterated that there is currently no established link between the incident and Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled visit.
Authorities said all necessary security measures are being taken to ensure a safe and secure environment for the Prime Minister, delegates and participants attending the Global Fintech Fest.
MUMBAI ON HIGH ALERT AHEAD OF PM MODI’S VISIT
Security agencies have placed Mumbai on heightened alert ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival for the Global Fintech Fest 2026. Authorities are maintaining strict surveillance around the NMACC, BKC and surrounding areas as part of comprehensive security arrangements for the high-profile event.
The detention of the two men and recovery of a licensed firearm have prompted officials to further strengthen security checks and access-control measures. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged use of fake PMO identification cards and are working to establish the motive behind the attempted entry.
The investigation is ongoing, while security agencies remain on alert ahead of the Prime Minister’s scheduled programme.
