With New Year celebrations around the corner, the Delhi Police launched a massive citywide crackdown to keep streets safe and prevent crime. Under Operation Aaghat, police teams worked through the night, arresting more than 150 criminals and detaining hundreds of others as part of preventive action across the capital.
The operation focused on areas known for criminal activity and places that see heavy crowds during the festive season. Police officers carried out surprise checks, vehicle inspections and raids, aiming to send a clear message that crime would not be tolerated during the celebrations.
Officials said the drive led to the seizure of over 20 country-made pistols, along with live cartridges and knives, raising concerns about the easy availability of illegal weapons. “Removing these weapons from the streets before New Year is critical for public safety,” a senior police officer said.
Large quantities of illicit liquor were also recovered during the operation. Police said illegal alcohol sales tend to spike during festivals and can lead to law-and-order issues and health risks. Alongside this, teams seized ganja and other narcotic substances, registering multiple cases under the NDPS Act. Drug peddlers often target young people and party-goers during festive periods, officials noted.
Beyond arrests and seizures, the operation brought relief to several citizens who had lost valuables. Police recovered hundreds of stolen mobile phones and two-wheelers, tracing them back to theft networks operating across different districts. Several habitual offenders, listed in police records as repeat criminals, were also picked up for questioning and preventive detention.
The scale of Operation Aaghat reflected coordinated planning across districts, with senior officers personally monitoring the drive. Additional patrols have been deployed at busy markets, transport hubs, party venues and tourist spots to ensure quick response to any untoward incident.
Delhi Police said the operation was not just about arrests, but about reassurance. “People should feel safe stepping out to celebrate,” an officer said, adding that visible policing and strict checks help build public confidence.
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate with police checks and report suspicious activity. With heightened vigilance continuing through New Year’s Eve, police said they are committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure start to the New Year for everyone in the capital.
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