Massive Police Operation in Punjab Nets Over 3,200 Arrests
In a significant crackdown on criminal elements, Punjab Police have arrested more than 3,200 individuals during a rigorous 72-hour statewide drive. The operation, named Operation Prahar-2, was launched on Monday under the direct supervision of Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.
Operation Prahar-2: Scope and Execution
The intensive police action involved over 2,000 specialized teams comprising approximately 12,000 personnel. Senior officers personally visited various police districts across Punjab to lead the coordinated efforts. During the three-day operation, law enforcement conducted an impressive 8,278 raids at locations linked to wanted criminals and gangsters.
Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla revealed comprehensive outcomes from the operation. Police teams rounded up 7,498 individuals statewide, with 3,260 subsequently arrested. Among those apprehended were 135 proclaimed offenders who had been evading law enforcement.
Substantial Recoveries During the Drive
The operation yielded significant recoveries of illegal substances and weapons. Police confiscated 47 firearms, 4.8 kilograms of heroin, 3.6 kilograms of opium, 42,797 intoxicant pills, 68 kilograms of poppy husk, and cash amounting to Rs 30 lakhs.
In addition to the arrests, police made 1,450 preventive detentions while 2,788 individuals were verified and released after thorough questioning. This balanced approach ensured both enforcement action and proper verification procedures.
Continuing Campaign Against Criminal Elements
DGP Gaurav Yadav expressed satisfaction with the operation's outcomes, noting that the 72-hour drive achieved objectives beyond expectations. He emphasized that the 'Gangstran Te Vaar' (crackdown against gangsters) campaign would continue relentlessly until Punjab is completely freed from criminal menace.
To facilitate public cooperation, authorities have established the Anti Gangster Helpline number 93946-93946. Citizens can anonymously report information about wanted criminals, gangsters, or any criminal activities through this dedicated channel.
Parallel Anti-Drug Drive Continues
Simultaneously, Punjab Police continued their anti-drug campaign "Yudh Nashian Virudh" for the 347th consecutive day. On Wednesday alone, authorities arrested 164 drug smugglers and recovered 11.9 kilograms of heroin along with 344 intoxicant tablets and capsules.
Since its launch in March 2025, this sustained anti-drug initiative has resulted in the arrest of 49,129 drug smugglers, demonstrating the police department's ongoing commitment to combating narcotics trafficking across the state.
The coordinated efforts of Operation Prahar-2 and the continuing anti-drug campaign represent a comprehensive approach to law enforcement in Punjab, targeting both organized criminal networks and drug trafficking operations simultaneously.
