In a major pre-New Year security crackdown, Delhi Police arrested 635 people and seized arms, narcotics, illicit liquor and vehicles as part of Operation Aaghat 3.0, aimed at strengthening law and order during the festive period.

The citywide operation was conducted on Friday to prevent criminal activities and ensure public safety during high-footfall New Year celebrations. Police officials said cases were registered under the Excise Act, NDPS Act and Gambling Act.

Massive preventive action across the city

Along with the arrests, police initiated large-scale preventive measures to deter potential offenders.

  • 504 individuals were apprehended under preventive provisions
  • 116 people with previous criminal records were arrested
  • Ten property offenders and five auto-lifters were detained

Officials said the focus was on habitual offenders, bootleggers and those involved in street-level crimes that typically rise during the holiday season.

Arms, liquor and narcotics seized

The operation led to substantial recoveries across multiple categories, reflecting the scale of the crackdown. Police seized:

  • 21 country-made pistols and 20 live cartridges
  • 27 knives
  • 12,258 quarters of illicit liquor
  • 6.01 kg of ganja
  • ₹2,30,990 in cash
  • 310 mobile phones
  • 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler

Police said the seizures disrupted several illegal supply chains operating in different parts of the city.

Police stress safety during festive rush

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South East) Hemant Tiwari described Operation Aaghat 3.0 as a critical step in maintaining public safety. He said the arrests and seizures demonstrated the police force’s commitment to preventing crime and ensuring a secure environment for both residents and visitors.

“All those arrested have been booked under relevant laws, and such operations will continue to keep criminal elements in check,” he said.

Part of an ongoing crime-control drive

Operation Aaghat 3.0 follows earlier phases of the crackdown. The first phase, launched in September, resulted in multiple arrests and seizures of firearms and narcotics. Operation Aaghat 2.0 in October saw around 500 people apprehended in a targeted drive against habitual offenders and drug peddlers.

Delhi Police said similar coordinated operations will continue in the coming days as part of heightened security arrangements during the New Year period.