AAP govt launches 72-hour Op Prahaar-2 to hunt down criminals in Punjab

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab on Sunday launched a 72-hour statewide special operation, Operation Prahaar-2, aimed at arresting wanted criminals and gangsters, further intensifying its flagship anti-crime drive "Gangstran Te Vaar (War against gangsters)".

Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav announced the operation after a high-level review meeting with Commissioners of Police (CPs), Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and range-level IGPs and DIGs.

The special operation will run from Monday to Wednesday and will be closely monitored by senior officers from the Punjab Police Headquarters.

The move follows the recent completion of Operation Prahaar-1, during which the police arrested 3,256 individuals and recovered 69 illegal weapons within 72 hours.

Citing the broader impact of the ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign, DGP Yadav said police teams have arrested 5,290 criminals, including gang members and their associates, over the last 20 days.

During this period, 128 weapons were recovered and 17,603 raids were conducted across the state.

Police also arrested 344 proclaimed offenders, took preventive action against 2,973 individuals and verified 5,413 persons who were later released after questioning.

“The campaign is completely lawful and targeted. Only those wanted in criminal cases are being arrested,” the DGP said, countering allegations of indiscriminate action.

To ensure strict supervision and accountability, Special DGPs, ADGPs, IGPs and DIG-rank officers have been assigned specific police districts to personally oversee operations on the ground.

Any negligence or lapse will invite strict action, the DGP warned. Senior police officers have been directed to maintain visible police presence, personally visit major crime scenes and conduct field inspections in high-footfall and identified hotspot areas.

Punjab Police has also issued fresh standard operating procedures (SOPs) to strengthen crime response.

These include round-the-clock high-tech nakas, immediate sealing plans after crime incidents, intensive checking of vehicles—particularly two-wheelers without number plates—and strict action against suspicious vehicles.

Officers have been instructed to maximise the use of wireless communication for faster response.

Highlighting gains under the state’s anti-drug campaign Yudh Nashian Virudh, launched on March 1, 2025, DGP Yadav said police have registered over 34,000 FIRs and arrested more than 48,000 drug smugglers.

Seizures include over 2,100 kg of heroin, large quantities of synthetic drugs and opium derivatives, nearly 48.31 lakh intoxicant pills and drug money worth Rs 15.91 crore.

The police urged citizens to support the campaign by sharing information anonymously through the Anti-Gangster Helpline at 93946-93946.

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