New Delhi, December 27, 2025: In a sweeping crackdown on crime and illegal activities in the national capital, the Delhi Police carried out ‘Operation Aaghat 3.0’ on Saturday across the South-East district, apprehending hundreds of people and seizing a large cache of arms, drugs, illegal liquor, vehicles, and other contraband items. The operation, which involved over 600 police personnel, was launched as the city prepared for New Year celebrations, a period that traditionally sees a spike in public movement, street crime, and festive-related offences.

Objective and Scope of the Operation

The primary aim of Operation Aaghat 3.0 was to curb organised crime, habitual offenders, street offences, and illegal activities, making the city safer for residents and visitors during the festive season. The crackdown focused on known crime hotspots in the South-East district, with special emphasis on patrolling, vehicle checking, night surveillance, and proactive identification of individuals involved in criminal activities.

Delhi Police officials noted that over the past month, there had already been a noticeable reduction in PCR calls regarding street crime in the area due to these intensified efforts, indicating the effectiveness of sustained policing measures.

Arrests and Apprehensions

During the operation, the police arrested a total of 331 individuals under specific legislations, including the Delhi Excise Act, the NDPS Act, and the Public Gambling Act. Additionally, 504 people were apprehended under various preventive provisions, aimed at deterring potential lawbreakers and maintaining public order.

Among the arrestees, 116 individuals listed as ‘bad characters’ were taken into custody. Law enforcement also apprehended five auto-lifters and four proclaimed offenders, highlighting the operation’s focus on organised criminal activity. Enforcement action was also taken against 1,306 people under the Delhi Police Act, ensuring a broad sweep covering both habitual offenders and minor violators.

Seizures Under the Arms Act

The operation led to the confiscation of 21 country-made pistols, 20 live cartridges, and 27 knives, as part of the police’s crackdown on illegal arms circulation. Officials emphasized that targeting unlicensed firearms and bladed weapons is critical to preventing violent street crime, particularly during high-footfall periods such as New Year celebrations.

Crackdown on Drugs and Gambling

In addition to arms, the police seized 6.01 kg of ganja during raids on drug-related activities. Authorities also confiscated ₹2.36 lakh from individuals involved in gambling, alongside 12,258 quarters of illegal liquor. These measures reflect the police’s concerted effort to curb the supply and distribution of illicit substances and gambling operations, which often serve as funding sources for organised crime.

Vehicles and Electronics Seized

The operation also targeted illegal transport and recovered multiple vehicles used for criminal purposes. Police seized six two-wheelers, one four-wheeler, and 310 mobile phones, many of which were reportedly linked to criminal operations. In addition, 231 two-wheelers were seized for violations of traffic and motor vehicle regulations, demonstrating the operation’s focus on road safety and law enforcement compliance.

Impact on Street Crime

Officials reported that the intensified patrolling, vehicle checking, and night surveillance have led to a marked reduction in street crime in the South-East district over the last month. These proactive measures, combined with high-visibility policing, aim to not only apprehend offenders but also deter potential criminal activity through heightened police presence.

Strategic Significance

Delhi Police highlighted that Operation Aaghat 3.0 is part of a broader initiative to ensure public safety during peak movement periods, such as festivals and year-end celebrations. By focusing on habitual criminals, organised crime networks, and illicit activities like drug trafficking, illegal liquor sales, and gambling, the operation seeks to create a safer environment for citizens and prevent any escalation of law and order issues.

Officials reiterated that the operation will continue in phases across other districts, with law enforcement leveraging intelligence networks, surveillance, and targeted raids to dismantle criminal networks operating in the city.

Future Measures

The Delhi Police further stated that in the coming months, they would continue enhanced patrolling, hotspot surveillance, and preventive measures to ensure that incidents of street crime remain low. Authorities also plan to integrate technology-driven policing measures, including digital monitoring and mobile tracking, to strengthen law enforcement capabilities and respond swiftly to incidents.

In conclusion, Operation Aaghat 3.0 underscores Delhi Police’s commitment to maintaining law and order, targeting organised crime, and ensuring the safety of citizens during high-risk periods, while simultaneously cracking down on illegal arms, drugs, and gambling operations in the national capital.

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