Ahead of New Year’s Eve, Delhi Police Arrest 285, Seize Pistols and Drugs in Massive Operation Aaghat 3.0

The operation, conducted on Friday, aimed to strengthen law and order and prevent criminal activities during the festive period. According to police officials, the arrests were made under the Excise Act, NDPS Act, and Gambling Act.

Preventive Detentions and Key Arrests

In addition to the arrests, police took preventive action against hundreds of individuals. Authorities said:

• 504 people were apprehended under preventive measures

• 116 individuals with criminal histories were arrested

• Ten property offenders and five auto-lifters were also held

Arms, Liquor, and Narcotics Seized

The operation resulted in significant recoveries across multiple categories. Police seized:

• 21 country-made pistols

• 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

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South East) Hemant Tiwari described the operation as a major step towards maintaining public safety, especially ahead of high-footfall New Year events across the city.

“The arrests and seizures reflect our commitment to preventing crime and ensuring a safe environment for residents and visitors,” Tiwari said, adding that all arrested individuals have been booked under relevant laws.

Part of Ongoing Crime-Control Drive

Operation Aaghat 3.0 follows earlier editions of the crackdown. In September, the first phase led to multiple arrests and the seizure of firearms and narcotics, while Operation Aaghat 2.0 in October saw around 500 people apprehended as part of a focused drive against habitual offenders, bootleggers, and drug peddlers.

Delhi Police said such coordinated operations will continue in the coming days to ensure heightened security during the holiday season.