Massive Pre-New Year Crackdown in Delhi: 285 Arrested, 50+ Weapons and Drugs Seized
Delhi Police launched a massive overnight crackdown under Operation Aaghat, arresting 285 people and seizing weapons, drugs, and cash to curb organised crime ahead of New Year celebrations
As Delhi gears up for New Year celebrations, police launched an expanded overnight crackdown across the national capital, arresting hundreds of accused, seizing illegal weapons and recovering stolen property in a bid to pre-empt crime during the festive rush.
The intensified drive, Operation Aaghat 3.0, was carried out by South East Delhi Police with coordinated raids and checks across vulnerable pockets of the district, targeting organised crime, street offenders and repeat lawbreakers.
Police said 285 accused were arrested under various provisions of the Arms Act, Excise Act, NDPS Act and Gambling Act during the operation. In addition, 504 people were apprehended under preventive action to avert potential offences during New Year gatherings.
As part of focused action against habitual offenders, 116 listed bad characters were picked up, while police also arrested 10 property offenders and five auto-lifters during the raids.
The operation led to significant recoveries, including 21 country-made pistols, 20 live cartridges and 27 knives. Police teams also seized consignments of drugs and illegal liquor, indicating attempts to push contraband into the market ahead of celebrations.
Large-scale recoveries of stolen property were also made. Police said 310 mobile phones that had been snatched, robbed or reported lost were recovered during the operation.
In a major blow to vehicle theft networks, police seized or recovered 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler during searches and road checks across the district.
Overall, 1,306 people were rounded up under preventive measures as police fanned out through the night, conducting checks, verifications and targeted raids based on local intelligence inputs.
Senior police officers said Operation Aaghat 3.0 was designed as a preventive and deterrent exercise to ensure public safety as the city approaches New Year celebrations, a period that traditionally sees a spike in crime and movement.
Delhi Police have conducted a massive pre-New Year crackdown, resulting in the arrest of 285 individuals and the seizure of a significant haul of weapons and drugs. The operation, aimed at ensuring public safety and curbing criminal activities ahead of the New Year celebrations, is being hailed as one of the largest enforcement drives in recent times.
The police operation was executed across multiple locations in Delhi, focusing on crime-prone areas, nightclubs, unauthorized gatherings, and suspected drug peddling hotspots. According to senior officials, the objective was to prevent any untoward incidents during the festive season, including firecracker-related accidents, drug abuse, and violent crimes.
Officers reportedly conducted raids, surprise checks, and vehicle inspections, with special teams deployed to cover both central and peripheral areas of the national capital. The operation lasted several hours, with coordination between various police units including special task forces, anti-narcotics squads, and local police stations.
A total of 285 individuals were apprehended during the crackdown. Those arrested are believed to be involved in drug distribution, illegal arms possession, and organized crime activities. The Delhi Police also seized a large number of items during the raids, including:
- Firearms and knives reportedly intended for criminal use
- Narcotics and psychotropic substances, including heroin, cocaine, and synthetic drugs
- Illegal firecrackers and other hazardous materials
Police officials stated that the seizure of these weapons and drugs is expected to significantly reduce criminal activity in the coming weeks, especially during high-risk times such as New Year’s Eve celebrations.
A senior police officer overseeing the operation said, “Our aim is to ensure that the citizens of Delhi can celebrate New Year’s Eve safely. Operations like these not only curb criminal elements but also send a strong message that law and order will not be compromised under any circumstances.”
Officials also confirmed that further investigations are underway to trace the networks behind drug trafficking and illegal arms distribution in the capital. Those arrested will face strict legal action, and their cases are being fast-tracked due to the seriousness of the offenses.
Authorities have advised citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local police stations or emergency helplines. The Delhi Police have also emphasized the importance of community participation in maintaining law and order, especially during festive seasons when criminal activities tend to spike.
Experts in urban safety note that pre-emptive crackdowns like this play a crucial role in preventing accidents, controlling the drug menace, and reducing violence during public celebrations. By taking decisive action ahead of major events, law enforcement agencies can effectively minimize risks to the general public.
The crackdown in Delhi is being seen as a model operation for other metropolitan cities preparing for New Year celebrations. By apprehending 285 offenders and confiscating weapons and narcotics, authorities hope to deter potential offenders and maintain a safe environment for the public.
With further investigations ongoing, the Delhi Police plan to continue intelligence-based operations and maintain a high level of vigilance throughout the festive season. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement and avoid participating in or supporting illegal activities that may compromise safety.
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