In a major pre-emptive strike ahead of New Year celebrations, the Delhi Police has executed a sweeping city-wide crackdown dubbed Operation Aaghat 3.0. The operation, aimed at curbing street and organised crime, has led to the arrest of over 600 individuals, with nearly 2,850 people being rounded up for questioning until Friday, 26th December 2025.
Massive Haul of Contraband and Cash
The police action yielded significant recoveries, dealing a substantial blow to illicit networks operating in the national capital. The seized items include a large cache of illegal arms, narcotics, and cash. According to officials, the recoveries from the operation until 26th December comprise:
- 21 country-made pistols
- 20 live cartridges and 27 knives
- 12,258 quarters of illicit liquor
- 6.01 kilograms of cannabis (ganja)
- ₹2,30,990 in cash from gambling operations
The South-East District of Delhi Police was particularly active, apprehending 285 accused under various acts including the Excise Act, NDPS Act, and Gambling Act in a single day. Additionally, 116 individuals were arrested under the Bad Character (BC) category.
Recovery of Stolen Property and Vehicle Theft Bust
Beyond contraband, the operation focused heavily on property crimes. The police successfully recovered a substantial amount of stolen property, providing relief to many victims. The recoveries included 310 stolen mobile phones, 231 two-wheelers, and one four-wheeler.
In a notable breakthrough, the Anti-Auto Theft Squad of the East District busted an inter-state auto-lifter gang, arresting two accused persons. This action led to the successful resolution of eight auto-theft cases across multiple police station jurisdictions in Delhi.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South East) Hemant Tiwari provided a detailed breakdown, confirming the arrest of ten property offenders and five auto-lifters during the intensive drive.
Public Vigilance and Official Statements
Highlighting the use of technology, Delhi Police's Dwarka district recovered and returned several stolen phones using the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal. Authorities also issued a public advisory, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or unattended items on streets immediately by dialling 112.
The police encouraged Delhiites to act as the "eyes and ears" of the force, emphasising community partnership in maintaining law and order.
Commenting on the success of the operation, Delhi Police Joint Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Jain told PTI, "I am very happy to say that in the Southern Range’s South and South-East districts, Operation Aaghat was carried out to curb street crime and organised crime. Around 2,850 people were rounded up and questioned, and around 600 offenders were arrested during the operation. Our operation has been very successful."
This large-scale initiative, Operation Aaghat 3.0, underscores the police department's focused strategy to ensure a secure environment for citizens during the festive New Year period by targeting bootleggers, drug peddlers, gamblers, and habitual offenders.
