Operation Prahar intensified across Punjab

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): With the launch of the decisive campaign 'Gangsteran Te War' to make Punjab a gangsterfree state, Operation Prahaar has been initiated by the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann. As part of this operation, coordinated raids are being conducted by Punjab Police teams at identified and mapped hideouts of both foreign-based and local gangsters across the state.

The core objective of this campaign has been defined as the complete dismantling of local networks and associates of criminals who orchestrate crimes in Punjab while operating from abroad. This large-scale operation has involved the deployment of nearly 12,000 Punjab Police personnel and more than 2,000 teams, which have been mobilised statewide. The campaign has been launched with the stated aim of ensuring a crime-free Punjab through decisive and sustained action.

Public cooperation has been sought as a key component of the campaign. Citizens have been urged to support the Punjab Police by confidentially sharing information related to wanted criminals or gangster activity, Information can be provided through the Anti-Gangster Helpline Number 93946-93946, enabling citizens to report crime-related inputs without fear.

Under the 'Gangsteran Te War' campaign, which was launched two weeks ago on the directions of the Chief Minister, extensive enforcement action has been carried out. So far, raids have been conducted at 14,382 locations across Punjab, leading to the arrest of 4,233 persons, including gangsters and their associates.

As per official information, 'Gangsteran Te War' was formally launched by Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on January 20, 2026. On the 14th day of the campaign, 613 raids were carried out by police teams, resulting in the arrest of 172 persons, preventive action against 159 individuals, and the arrest of nine proclaimed offenders (POs).

Simultaneously, the fight against drugs has continued under the 'Yudh Nasheyan Virudh' campaign. On the 338th day of this drive, 81 drug smugglers were arrested, while 1.3 kg of heroin, 1,053 intoxicant tablets and capsules, and R 1.23 lakh in drug money were recovered. With these arrests, the total number of drug smugglers apprehended over 338 days has reached 47,498.

As part of the broader de-addiction initiative, 11 individuals were also motivated during this period to undergo dc-addiction and rehabilitation treatment, reinforcing the state's dual strategy of strict enforcement and social reform.

Through this sustained and coordinated campaign, firm resolve has been reiterated by the Punjab Government that organised crime networks will be dismantled and that criminals wilt not be allowed to operate with impunity in the state.