Surat: With nearly 50 murders recorded in the first five months of 2026, raising concerns over law and order and emboldening anti-social elements, the Surat police launched a sweeping crackdown that netted 1,794 individuals carrying weapons across the city.
Massive Detention and Parade
The police detained 1,794 persons found carrying knives, swords, firearms, and other weapons, booking them under provisions of the Gujarat Police Act. Of these, around 1,000 were paraded before senior police officials at the Surat police parade ground on Thursday and warned against engaging in criminal activities.
Operation to Prevent Serious Offences
The operation was specifically aimed at preventing serious offences such as murder, attempted murder, robbery, extortion, and criminal intimidation, officials stated.
Targeting Illegal Activities
The crackdown also addressed other forms of illegal activity. During the drive, police booked 2,168 persons under the Prohibition Act for alcohol consumption and registered cases against 798 individuals involved in liquor sales. Additionally, 40 cases were registered under the NDPS Act for drug consumption and trafficking.
Dismantling Crime Ecosystem
Police officials said the large-scale operation was designed to dismantle the ecosystem that often fuels violent crime and maintain law and order ahead of the festive season. “Such drives help curb the crime rate in the city. Following the operation, we have observed a noticeable decline in criminal incidents. A large number of weapons have been seized, and we expect serious crimes to further reduce in the coming months. The action has also helped strengthen the sense of security among citizens,” a senior police officer said.
Counselling and Warnings
During the parade, senior officers counselled those detained and cautioned them against resorting to crime. They urged them to avoid violence and petty disputes, including altercations arising from minor road accidents, and warned that criminal behaviour would invite strict legal action and adversely affect their families and future prospects.
