In a decisive move against organized crime and illegal occupation, authorities in Gurgaon demolished a commercial market that was unlawfully constructed on government land. The operation, carried out on Monday, targeted a half-acre plot in Badshapur that had been under illegal control for over five years.
Brothers with Criminal Histories Behind the Encroachment
The illegal structure was allegedly built and operated by two real brothers, identified as Ravi and Narendra, also known as Tillu, residents of Ravidas Mohalla. Police records paint a stark picture of their backgrounds. Narendra faces a staggering 13 criminal cases registered since 2012, while Ravi has five serious cases against him, including charges of attempt to murder, rioting, and violations under the Arms Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Their alleged crimes span murder, attempted murder, arms offences, excise violations, and organised crime.
According to Badshapur Station House Officer (SHO) Inspector Vijaypal, the brothers were habitual offenders with a specific modus operandi. "They identify vacant land and then take its illegal possession," the SHO explained. "They then either take money forcefully to leave the land or they make profits out of it by leasing out illegal shops. Here they used to charge Rs 100 from each shop."
A Demolition to Send a "Strong Message"
The land, located opposite the cremation ground in Badshapur, belonged to the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG). It was being used for rental and other commercial activities, generating illicit income for the accused. Police spokesperson Sandeep Kumar stated that the demolition was executed to send a "strong message against organised crime and encroachment."
"Sustained surveillance led to the identification of the illegally occupied property," Kumar said. "After completing all legal procedures, the demolition was carried out under tight security to prevent any breach of law and order. The operation was completed peacefully."
Part of a Broader Crackdown on Crime-Linked Assets
This action is not an isolated event but part of a wider strategy by the Gurgaon police. The drive aims to free government land from encroachers and specifically target properties accumulated through criminal activities. "Police will not allow criminals to benefit from illegal assets. Action will continue against encroachments and properties acquired through crime," SHO Vijaypal asserted.
The authorities have signaled that this is just the beginning. Details of properties acquired by other criminals are currently being compiled, with similar demolition actions planned for the coming days. Furthermore, the police have announced strict steps against drug traffickers and other organised crime networks operating within the district, indicating a comprehensive crackdown on illicit enterprises and their economic foundations.
The demolition in Badshapur underscores a renewed focus on dismantling the physical and economic infrastructure of crime syndicates, moving beyond individual arrests to target the proceeds and properties that fuel their operations.