Punjab Police launch 72-hour ‘Operation Prahar’ to break global gangster network
PTC Web Desk: In one of its most extensive crackdowns on organised crime, the Punjab Police on Tuesday launched ‘Operation Prahar’, a 72-hour statewide offensive aimed at dismantling the entire ecosystem of gangsters operating from abroad and their local support network.
Announcing the operation, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said the police had identified 60 key gangsters currently based overseas and mapped their network of nearly 1,200 accomplices and 600 family-linked locations across Punjab. As part of the drive, around 1,200 accomplices have already been taken into custody.
Massive deployment across Punjab
More than 12,000 police personnel, organised into 2,000 special teams, have been deployed to conduct coordinated raids across the state. These teams are searching gangster hideouts, questioning aides and verifying the role of family members suspected of facilitating criminal activities.
“The objective is clear: to make Punjab completely free of gangster activities by breaking their network at every level,” the DGP said, adding that the operation was launched after detailed strategy sessions and under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
Issuing a stern warning, DGP Yadav said gangsters operating from foreign countries should not consider themselves beyond the reach of the law. “With the support of the Government of India, we are tracking gangsters sitting abroad. Their local supporters will also face strict legal action,” he said.
A new Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell (OFTEC) has been set up to accelerate deportation and extradition efforts. IG Counter-Intelligence Ashish Choudhary, recently returned from a seven-year tenure with the NIA, has been appointed to head the cell. So far, 21 Red Corner Notices have already been issued against absconding gangsters.
Encounters reported in Jalandhar, Mandi Gobindgarh
Soon after the operation began, two encounters were reported. In Mandi Gobindgarh, a gangster identified as Shiva opened fire on the police while being taken for weapon recovery, injuring a home guard jawan. The police retaliated, injuring and arresting him.
In Jalandhar, the police intercepted two suspects who allegedly fired at a police team. One accused, Karan, was injured in cross-firing, while his accomplice managed to flee. The suspects are linked to a firing incident targeting Sukhchain Singh, who had recently returned from the UK. Investigations suggest the conspiracy had international links involving money transfers and hired shooters operating from abroad.
The police have also intensified scrutiny of criminal financing, with plans to attach properties and freeze assets linked to gangsters, similar to earlier action against drug traffickers.
“All proceeds of crime will be traced. Anyone found funding or facilitating gangster activities will face zero tolerance,” the DGP said.
Illegal travel agents who allegedly helped criminals flee the country after committing crimes are also under the scanner.
Reiterating strict internal accountability, DGP Yadav warned that any police official found aiding gangsters will be treated as a criminal.
“There is no room for compromise. Anyone assisting gangsters, directly or indirectly, will face the same consequences,” he said, while also asserting zero tolerance for extortion calls.
Responding to questions on political links, the DGP said no evidence has emerged so far connecting politicians with gangsters.
The DGP also announced a Rs 500-crore jail modernisation plan, which includes installation of jammers, enhanced surveillance and security upgrades. Jail factories are being revamped to provide inmates with opportunities for lawful employment.
On the digital front, the Punjab Police have intensified action against the glorification of crime on social media. Over 10,000 posts have been removed and several thousand accounts promoting weapons or criminal activities have been shut down.
Helpline issued, surrender appeal made
A helpline number, 93946-93946, has been issued for citizens to share information related to gangsters. The DGP made a direct appeal to misguided youth to surrender and return to the mainstream. “This is the last opportunity. Punjab has no place for gangsters,” he said.
Reward policy approved
The Punjab Government has also approved a reward policy worth Rs 10 crore to incentivise effective policing. Under the scheme, officers will receive rewards for successful investigations, property attachment, narcotics seizures and securing convictions.
- PTC NEWS
