Even the cops don't dare to step into the den of Nigerian thugs. Unable to match the muscle power of these big-bodied Africans, many of who are involved in e-mail scams or drug peddling cases, the police are now turning to local bodybuilders and bouncers for protection.

The Mumbai and Thane police have developed a network of around 100 such well-built men to tackle Nigerian offenders.


ILLUSTRATION/SATISH ACHARYA

Bad experience
In a recent case on Saturday, the Thane rural police raided nondescript localities in Mira Road and Nalasopara and picked up 15 foreign nationals. This of course with a team of 20 bodybuilders and 20 policemen.

"We have recently arrested 15 Nigerians involved in illegal activities. However, this would not have been possible without the help of the bodybuilders. These hefty and violent ruffians don't hesitate to attack the police," said Nagnath Sampatvad, deputy superintendent of police, Thane.

"It becomes difficult to tackle them without someone who can match their power. In such cases, local bodybuilders and bouncers come to our rescue," he admitted.

Tough luck
Police officials confess that their early attempts to nab Nigerian suspects have failed. "We had several bitter experiences. Many a times, we have reached the spot to catch these goondas red-handed, but have failed. They are strong and many of our officials are no match for them," said a police officer, requesting anonymity.

In fact, the cops now plan the arrests well in advance. In an incident earlier this week, a manager of a coffee shop was assaulted by an African. The police have a tip-off that he is a resident of Moti Nagar in Mira Road, which is popularly known as Nigerianwadi among police circles. However, they have not gone ahead and made the arrest.

"We have seized the mobile phone of the suspect and have even tracked him down. But now we are looking out for bodybuilders. We will take at least four of them along with us to ensure that the offender does not give us a slip," said Suresh Nalavde, senior police inspector, Versova police station.

Quick buck
But what is in it for these bodybuilders? They often get injured during the operation, but many don't mind bearing the pain, as they feel it's a quick way to make some big bucks. "We get paid Rs 500 per day(N1500), so a little bruises here and there do not hurt," said one bodybuilder from Nalasopara, who has helped the local police in a few arrests.

Brian Coria (27), who lives near Nigerianwadi, has been part of the cops' network for almost a year now.

Though he is not a bodybuilder, Coria is well built and a helpful hand for the cops. "Wherever there is a raid, we get a call from the cops. We help in arresting the suspects and taking them to the chowky. Sometimes, we are called to take them to court as well," he said.

"Fighting the Africans is no cakewalk, as they are very aggressive. We often get beaten up, but by helping the police we are serving the society," he added.