Delhi Police's Vigilant Sweep Nets Over 660 Arrests Before New Year

Post by : Mina Rahman

With New Year's Eve around the corner, Delhi Police executed an extensive security operation in South and South East Delhi, leading to the apprehension of over 660 suspects during a concentrated overnight effort aimed at enhancing safety throughout the festivities.

Labeled Operation Aaghat 3.0, this collaborative endeavor involved rigorous searches across at-risk neighborhoods over a 24-hour timeframe. The police primarily focused on habitual criminals, drug traffickers, illegal liquor distributors, gamblers, and others deemed as threats to ensure a secure environment for local residents.

Police reports indicated that the South East district contributed significantly with 285 arrests, while overall interactions within South and South East Delhi reached more than 850 detentions. More than 2,800 individuals were interrogated during this operation, which authorities characterized as a "highly effective campaign."

A substantial array of illegal possessions was confiscated throughout the raids. This included 24 homemade pistols and 44 knives, highlighting the operation's commitment to dismantling arms offenses. Authorities also seized over 22,500 quarters of illicit alcohol and detained over 60 individuals related to these confiscations.

Furthermore, the crackdown led to the arrest of 10 people with almost 10 kilograms of ganja (cannabis) as part of the anti-drug initiative. The operation also revealed gambling schemes, prompting the detention of 68 gamblers and the recovery of Rs 2.3 lakh in cash.

The operation also aimed at vehicle theft, with five suspected auto-lifters arrested and the recovery of 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler, intended to mitigate vehicle thefts during this busy holiday period.

Emphasizing organized crime, police identified around 155 “bad characters,” known for repeat offenses, and arrested them to disrupt their criminal schemes. Additionally, 10 property offenders were taken into custody, illustrating the operation's extensive reach.

Senior police officials highlighted that this initiative sends a decisive warning to those involved in crimes, reaffirming law enforcement’s dedication to public safety as the festivities unfold.

A total of 66 cases were documented under the Arms Act concerning weapon possession, leading to an equivalent number of arrests. Other cases were registered under the Excise Act for illicit liquor, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act for drug offences, and the Gambling Act for illegal betting practices.

Over 350 individuals were arrested for consuming alcohol in public spaces, a violation of local regulations aimed at maintaining order in public areas.

In a notable achievement, approximately 350 stolen or lost mobile phones were retrieved during the operation. Law enforcement is now working to return these devices to their rightful owners, providing assistance to theft victims.

Police assurances indicate that this crackdown will persist in the following days to maintain a secure atmosphere during the New Year celebrations. Authorities have urged the public to aid law enforcement by reporting any suspicious behavior to help sustain peace in the capital.

This robust enforcement effort underscores the Delhi Police's unwavering commitment to battling crime and fostering a peaceful environment for all amidst the festive season.