As New Year celebrations draw closer, Delhi Police have intensified efforts to curb crime and ensure public safety across the capital. In a major crackdown aimed at deterring criminal activity, South-East Delhi Police launched a large-scale special drive named Operation Aaghat, focusing on known crime hotspots and vulnerable areas.
The operation was designed to prevent untoward incidents during the festive season, when crowds increase and criminal elements often attempt to exploit gaps in security. Through extensive checks, questioning, and targeted action, police sought to send a strong message that law and order violations will not be tolerated.
Operation Aaghat resulted in hundreds of arrests, widespread questioning, and the recovery of a significant cache of illegal weapons, liquor, narcotics, and stolen property, marking one of the most comprehensive preventive policing exercises in the district in recent months.
Operation Aaghat Launched Ahead of New Year
South-East Delhi Police initiated Operation Aaghat as part of heightened security measures ahead of New Year celebrations. The drive involved coordinated action by multiple police teams deployed across the district to monitor suspicious movement and identify individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Police officials said the timing of the operation was crucial, as festive periods often see a spike in crimes such as theft, snatching, illegal liquor sales, and drug trafficking. By acting preemptively, authorities aimed to reduce the likelihood of incidents that could disrupt public peace.
The operation covered residential areas, markets, transport hubs, and known trouble spots, ensuring a visible police presence that also reassured residents and visitors.
Extensive Questioning and Preventive Action
During the drive, police teams questioned more than 1,000 individuals at various checkpoints and locations. Many of these individuals were verified under preventive measures to assess potential threats and deter criminal intent.
Officials noted that preventive questioning plays a key role in crime control, as it discourages repeat offenders and disrupts plans for illegal activities. Individuals found suspicious or with past records were closely scrutinised.
As part of preventive policing, over 1,300 people were rounded up to ensure peace and stability in the district, reflecting the scale and seriousness of the operation.
Arrests Under Multiple Laws
The operation led to the arrest of 285 accused under various laws, including the Arms Act, Excise Act, NDPS Act, and Gambling Act. These arrests targeted a wide range of offences, from illegal weapon possession to drug trafficking and unlawful betting.
In addition to these arrests, 504 individuals were apprehended under preventive sections to stop potential criminal activities before they could occur. Police also detained 116 listed bad characters, who were known repeat offenders with criminal histories.
Authorities said that removing habitual offenders from the streets, even temporarily, plays a vital role in maintaining law and order during sensitive periods.
Action Against Property Crime and Auto Theft
Operation Aaghat also focused on property-related crimes that have been a concern in several parts of South-East Delhi. During the drive, police arrested 10 property offenders linked to theft and burglary cases.
Five auto-lifters were also nabbed, dealing a blow to vehicle theft networks operating in the district. Stolen vehicles are often used in other crimes, making such arrests critical for broader crime prevention.
Police officials stated that cracking down on these offenders helps restore public confidence and reduces financial losses faced by residents.
Seizure of Illegal Arms and Ammunition
One of the most significant outcomes of the operation was the recovery of illegal weapons. Police seized 21 country-made pistols, 20 live cartridges, and 27 knives during searches and arrests.
The presence of such weapons posed a serious threat to public safety, particularly during crowded New Year events. Their seizure is expected to reduce the risk of violent crimes and intimidation.
Officials emphasised that strict action against illegal arms is a priority, as weapons often escalate minor disputes into serious criminal incidents.
Massive Haul of Illicit Liquor and Drugs
The operation resulted in the seizure of 12,258 quarters of illicit liquor, dealing a major blow to illegal alcohol trade in the district. Illegal liquor sales often increase during festive seasons, posing health risks and fuelling other crimes.
In addition to liquor, police recovered 6.01 kilograms of ganja under the NDPS Act. Drug trafficking and consumption remain key focus areas for law enforcement due to their link with organised crime.
Authorities said such seizures disrupt supply chains and act as a deterrent to those involved in the illegal trade of narcotics and alcohol.
Crackdown on Gambling Activities
As part of Operation Aaghat, police also targeted illegal gambling activities. From gambling-related cases, officers seized cash amounting to Rs 2,30,990.
Illegal gambling often operates covertly during festive periods, attracting criminal elements and leading to financial exploitation. The crackdown aimed to curb such activities before they could expand.
Police officials noted that strict enforcement against gambling helps maintain social order and prevents disputes linked to financial losses.
Recovery of Stolen Property and Vehicles
Police teams recovered 310 mobile phones that had been snatched, robbed, or reported lost, providing relief to many victims of street crime. Mobile phone theft has been a persistent issue in urban areas.
In addition, 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler were seized or recovered during the drive. Many of these vehicles were either stolen or used in criminal activities.
The recovery of stolen property not only helps victims but also weakens criminal networks that rely on resale and illegal use of such assets.
Senior Police Officials on the Operation
Deputy Commissioner of Police for South-East Delhi, Hemant Tiwari, stated that Operation Aaghat was carefully planned to improve public safety and ensure a secure environment during the New Year period.
He emphasised that the operation was intended to act as a strong deterrent, sending a clear message that criminal behaviour will be met with swift and decisive action.
Police leadership highlighted the coordinated effort of officers on the ground, whose vigilance and teamwork contributed to the operation’s success.
Impact on Law and Order
The large number of arrests, seizures, and preventive actions has significantly strengthened law and order in South-East Delhi ahead of the festive season.
Residents have reported increased police visibility and a greater sense of security, particularly in busy markets and residential colonies.
Authorities believe that such proactive measures help reduce crime rates and create a safer environment for public celebrations.
Future Security Measures
Delhi Police have stated that special drives like Operation Aaghat will continue in the coming weeks, especially during periods of heightened public activity.
Regular checks, surveillance, and targeted action against known offenders are expected to remain key components of policing strategy.
With New Year celebrations approaching, police have urged citizens to cooperate with security measures and report suspicious activities to help maintain peace and safety across the city.
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Harshit Raj
