Madurai: A comprehensive preventive policing and crime deterrence initiative, named Operation SHIELDNET, was implemented across all 10 districts and Tirunelveli City in the South Zone starting Wednesday. The operation aims to tighten surveillance on repeat offenders and bolster crime prevention mechanisms.
Key Measures Under Operation SHIELDNET
According to police officials, the coordinated operation encompasses a range of preventive measures, including verification of history-sheeters and suspects, execution of long-pending non-bailable warrants (NBWs), intensive vehicle checks, bail cancellation initiatives, and initiation of preventive proceedings under Section 126 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
First Day Actions
On the first day of the operation, police teams inspected 3,295 suspects, among whom 261 were history-sheeters. As part of follow-up actions, 33 history-sheeter criminals involved in various offenses were arrested, while 27 individuals with long-pending NBWs were traced and taken into custody.
Police stated that preventive proceedings under Section 126 of the BNSS were initiated against 228 people.
Vehicle Checks and Seizures
Extensive vehicle checks resulted in the seizure of 552 two-wheelers for violations such as missing number plates, rash driving, use of flickering lights, and unlawful modifications. Senior police officials emphasized that special focus is being placed on systematically identifying and monitoring repeat offenders as part of the operation.
Bail Cancellation and Trial Monitoring
Steps are being taken to approach judicial forums for cancellation of bail in cases where accused individuals continue criminal activities while out on bail, officials said. Police will also closely monitor trial proceedings under the existing case officer initiative to improve conviction rates and ensure effective prosecution.
Sustained Efforts
Officials added that the operation involves all district police units in the South Zone and will continue in a sustained and intensified manner in the coming days, as part of efforts to strengthen preventive policing and public safety.
