Massive pre-New Year crackdown in Delhi: Over 600 arrested; weapons, drugs seized
Delhi Police launched a massive overnight crackdown under Operation Aaghat, arresting over 600 people and seizing weapons, drugs, and cash to curb organised crime ahead of New Year celebrations.
As Delhi gears up for New Year celebrations, police launched an expanded overnight crackdown across the national capital, arresting hundreds of accused, seizing illegal weapons and recovering stolen property in a bid to pre-empt crime during the festive rush.
The intensified drive, Operation Aaghat 3.0, was carried out by South East Delhi Police with coordinated raids and checks across vulnerable pockets of the district, targeting organised crime, street offenders and repeat lawbreakers.
HUNDREDS ARRESTED UNDER MULTIPLE LAWS
In a crackdown on gambling, cases were filed against 30 individuals, all of whom were arrested, and raids were conducted on gambling hotspots.
Police said over 600 accused were arrested under various provisions of the Arms Act, Excise Act, NDPS Act and Gambling Act during the operation.
In addition, over 2,800 people were rounded up in the last 24 hours under preventive action to avert potential offences during New Year gatherings.
WEAPONS, CARTRIDGES AND KNIVES RECOVERED
As part of focused action against habitual offenders, the police intensified enforcement drives, registering 66 cases under the Arms Act and arresting 66 people, with 24 pistols and 44 knives recovered. Ten people were held in drug-related cases.
Police teams also seized consignments of drugs and illegal liquor, indicating attempts to push contraband into the market ahead of celebrations.
Action was also taken against more than 150 people involved in illegal chit fund activities.
Additionally, 350 people were detained for drinking in public places, while raids led to the recovery of 350 stolen mobile phones.
VEHICLES SEIZED, SUSPECTS ROUNDED UP
In a major blow to vehicle theft networks, police seized or recovered 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler during searches and road checks across the district.
Overall, 2,800 people were rounded up under preventive measures as police fanned out through the night, conducting checks, verifications and targeted raids based on local intelligence inputs.
Senior police officers said Operation Aaghat 3.0 was designed as a preventive and deterrent exercise to ensure public safety as the city approaches New Year celebrations, a period that traditionally sees a spike in crime and movement.