Delhi Police arrest over 660 in massive Operation Aaghat crackdown ahead of New Year celebrations

The large-scale operation, codenamed Operation Aaghat 3.0, focused on South and South East Delhi districts and aimed to prevent crime during the festive period.

According to police officials, the coordinated action resulted in the seizure of illegal weapons, illicit liquor, drugs, cash, and stolen property.

The arrests were part of a preventive strategy to ensure safe and peaceful celebrations across the national capital.

South and South East Delhi at the centre of the drive

Of the total arrests, South East Delhi alone accounted for 285 accused.

The operation was jointly conducted by police teams from both districts, targeting known crime hotspots through extensive searches and verification drives.

Police said the accused were booked under multiple laws, including the Arms Act, Excise Act, NDPS Act, and Gambling Act.

More than 2,800 individuals were questioned during the operation, while an additional 850 people were detained as a precautionary measure.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Security) SK Jain described the drive as “very successful,” stating that it sent a strong warning to criminals ahead of New Year festivities.

Focus on habitual offenders and organised crime

A key focus of Op Aaghat 3.0 was action against organised crime networks.

Police detained around 155 habitual offenders, commonly referred to as “bad characters,” along with 10 property offenders involved in theft-related cases.

Authorities said the drive primarily targeted drug peddlers, bootleggers, gamblers, and repeat offenders operating in the area.

“The message was loud and clear—street crime and organised crime will not be tolerated,” a senior police officer said.

Weapons, liquor, drugs seized

During the raids, police registered 66 cases under the Arms Act and arrested an equal number of accused.

The seizures included 24 country-made pistols and 44 knives.

In a major blow to illegal liquor networks, over 22,500 quarters of illicit alcohol were seized, leading to the arrest of more than 60 people.

Police also recovered 10 kilograms of ganja, arresting 10 individuals under the NDPS Act.

Additionally, over 350 people were arrested for consuming alcohol in public places.

Crackdown on gambling and vehicle theft

The operation also targeted illegal gambling activities, with police registering at least 30 cases and arresting 68 gamblers.

Cash worth ₹2.3 lakh was recovered from them.

To curb vehicle thefts during the festive rush, police arrested five auto-lifters and seized 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler.

Officials said the action was taken to prevent inconvenience to revellers during New Year celebrations.

Stolen phones recovered

Police also recovered around 350 stolen or lost mobile phones during the drive.

Officials said the devices would soon be returned to their rightful owners, adding to the operation’s impact on public safety.