Building on its success in combating drugs, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on Wednesday led the entire Punjab Police force to carry out an extensive Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) for Safe Neighbourhood aimed at pre-empting street-level crimes including snatching, eve teasing, theft, etc.
DGP Gaurav Yadav, who joined DIG Ropar range Nilambari Jagdale and SSP SAS Nagar Deepak Pareek in Balongi, has personally interacted with the residents and shopkeepers of the area amidst the heavy deployment of police force to conduct thorough checking of the area. “The operation was aimed at infusing fear among anti-social elements and instil sense of security among common people,” he said.
Notably, the operation was conducted from 11am to 3pm simultaneously in all 28 Police districts of the state and Spl DGP/ADGP/IGP/DIG rank officers from PPHQ were deputed in each Police district to personally supervise the operation.The CPs/SSPs were directed to mobilise maximum force to carry out this operation.
The DGP said that the ‘CASO for Safe Neighbourhood’ initiative involves a multi-faceted approach under which crime data is analysed at various levels to study patterns, identify hotspots, and understand criminal profiles, which will further help to act strategically and avert such petty crimes. Senior police officers have been asked to engage Village Defence Committees, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), educational institutions, and market associations to gather feedback and concerns, he added.
He said that to deter crime, police presence will be increased through naka-bandi, foot patrolling, and PCR vehicle patrols at identified hotspots. Additionally, CCTV surveillance is being bolstered through collaborations with local bodies department and local stakeholders including RWAs, market associations, institutions, and homeowners. DGP Gaurav Yadav said that Punjab Police is also focusing on preventing drug sales near educational institutions, identifying and monitoring vulnerable areas. By leveraging technology and community outreach, this initiative seeks to prevent street crimes and foster a safer environment for residents, he added.
Later, the DGP also held a meeting with the RWAs to explore ways in which police, with their cooperation, can make streets safer from petty crimes.Sharing details of the CASO, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla said that over 1500 Police teams, comprising over 11,000 police personnel, have cordoned off as many as crime hotspots across the state.
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As many as 236 Strong Nakas were also laid at and around all the crime hotspots, he added.
During the operation, the Special DGP said that the Police teams have registered 140 first information reports (FIRs). Police teams have also checked suspicious persons and verified their credentials.
Meanwhile, this proactive policing strategy demonstrates Punjab Police’s commitment to community engagement and ensuring public safety. By working together with residents and stakeholders, the police aim to build trust and create a secure neighbourhood for all.
