Delhi Police stepped up its action against crime ahead of the New Year celebrations by launching Operation Aaghat 3.0 on Friday. The special drive focused on preventing crimes before large public gatherings and late-night celebrations across the city.
The operation aimed to curb illegal liquor, drug trafficking, gambling, and repeat offenders. Police teams conducted checks across multiple locations to maintain law and order during the festive season.
285 Arrested Under Excise, NDPS, and Gambling Laws
During the drive, police arrested 285 people under the Excise Act, NDPS Act, and Gambling Act. Officers also detained hundreds as part of preventive measures to stop potential criminal activity.
As many as 504 people were apprehended preventively, while 1,306 individuals were rounded up during checks. Police also arrested 116 people identified as “bad characters” to reduce the risk of repeat offences during New Year events.
Weapons Recovered During Intensive Checks
The operation led to the seizure of several illegal weapons. Police recovered:
- 21 country-made pistols
- 20 live cartridges
- 27 knives
These recoveries highlight the scale of illegal arms circulation that authorities aimed to disrupt before the holiday rush.
Crackdown on Drugs and Illicit Liquor
Police also targeted drug peddlers and illegal liquor networks during the operation. Teams seized:
- 12,258 quarters of illicit liquor
- 6.01 kg of ganja
The seizures were made during raids conducted at multiple locations across the district.
Gambling, Theft, and Vehicle Recoveries
Action was also taken against gambling and property-related crimes. Police recovered:
- ₹2,30,990 from gambling activities
- 310 mobile phones
- 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler
Several stolen vehicles and mobile phones were traced and seized as part of the drive.
Police Speak on Operation Aaghat 3.0
DCP South East Hemant Tiwari said the operation played a major role in maintaining public safety.
He said, “Ten property offenders and five auto-lifters were arrested during the operation. Recoveries include 21 CMP, 20 live cartridges, and 27 knives. A total of 12,258 quarters of illicit liquor and 6.01 kg of ganja were seized. We also recovered ₹2,30,990 from gamblers, along with 310 mobile phones. As many as 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler were seized or recovered.”
He added, “285 accused have been arrested under the Excise Act, NDPS Act, and Gambling Act. A total of 504 persons were apprehended under preventive action, while 116 Bad Characters were also apprehended.”
Why Operation Aaghat Matters Before the New Year
Police believe preventive action is crucial before the New Year celebrations, when crowd movement increases, and crime risks rise. The operation focused on removing known offenders, illegal substances, and weapons from public spaces.
Authorities said such drives help ensure safer celebrations and reduce emergencies during peak festive hours.
Earlier Editions of Operation Aaghat
Operation Aaghat began earlier this year as a focused effort to tackle organised crime and habitual offenders. Previous editions also resulted in arrests and seizures of firearms, drugs, illicit liquor, and stolen property.
Police said Operation Aaghat 3.0 builds on those efforts and reflects continued vigilance to protect public safety.