Punjab Police Arrests Nearly 4,000, Including 42 Gangsters, in 16-Day Operation

Punjab Police have arrested nearly 4,000 individuals, including 42 gangsters and 1,201 drug smugglers, during a 16-day statewide operation, Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav announced on Saturday. The operation, codenamed 'Prahaar-3.0', was conducted under the ongoing 'Gangstran Te Vaar' campaign, which aims to eliminate gangsters and drug trafficking from the state.

The drive was carried out in a staggered manner, with one police range or commissionerate targeted each day. Police teams comprising 10,401 personnel conducted 5,448 raids across the state. A total of 958 first information reports (FIRs) were registered, and preventive action was initiated against 1,520 persons. Additionally, 262 vehicles were impounded, and over 10 kilograms of heroin were seized.

DGP Yadav stated that the operation was a systematic effort to strengthen public confidence and police visibility while dismantling criminal syndicates. He emphasized that the drive will continue until Punjab becomes completely gangster-free. The operation is the third phase of the 'Prahaar' series, following earlier successes against organised crime.

Punjab has been grappling with gang violence and drug abuse for years, leading to multiple police initiatives. The 'Gangstran Te Vaar' campaign, launched earlier this year, focuses on intelligence-led enforcement and community engagement to curb criminal activities. The latest phase saw heightened coordination between district police units and specialised agencies.

The arrests include individuals with links to major gang networks and drug cartels operating in the region. Police have also recovered weapons and cash during the raids, though exact figures were not disclosed. The operation underscores the state's commitment to law and order, with authorities vowing to sustain pressure on criminal elements.