(Image source from: Twitter.com/DelhiPolice)

As Delhi prepares for New Year festivities, the police have initiated an extensive overnight operation throughout the capital, arresting many suspects, confiscating illegal firearms, and recovering stolen items to prevent crime during the holiday season. This enhanced effort, named Operation Aaghat 3.0, was conducted by the South East Delhi Police with coordinated searches and checks in high-risk areas of the district, focusing on organized criminals, street offenders, and repeat offenders. Authorities reported that 285 individuals were taken into custody under different laws including the Arms Act, Excise Act, NDPS Act, and Gambling Act during this operation. Additionally, 504 people were detained as a precaution to stop any possible crimes during New Year celebrations.

In an effort to target repeat offenders, 116 identified troublemakers were arrested, and the police also detained 10 individuals involved in property crimes and five involved in vehicle theft during the raids. The operation resulted in significant discoveries, with police finding 21 homemade guns, 20 live bullets, and 27 knives. Police teams also took control of shipments of illegal drugs and alcohol, suggesting attempts to bring contraband into the market before the celebrations. A large quantity of stolen goods was also recovered, including 310 mobile phones that had been taken, stolen, or reported missing during the operation. In a significant hit to car theft rings, the police seized or found 231 motorcycles and one car during searches and checkpoints across the district. In total, 1,306 individuals were detained as a precaution while police performed checks, verifications, and targeted operations based on local tips throughout the night.

High-ranking police officials stated that Operation Aaghat 3.0 was intended as a preventative and deterrent measure aimed at ensuring public safety as the city approaches New Year celebrations, a time when crime and activity traditionally see an increase.