Chandigarh, April 21: The Punjab Police have significantly disrupted organized crime networks across the state, bringing 49,298 individuals under the police net during the first three months of the “Gangstran Te Vaar” initiative. Launched on January 20 under the direction of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the operation has targeted the logistical and financial ecosystems of gangs operating both locally and from abroad.
Data released by the authorities indicates that 22,605 people have been arrested, including 915 proclaimed offenders and 461 gangster associates. Enforcement teams conducted 62,302 raids across the state through April 19, focusing on dismantling the communication and funding lines used by criminal syndicates.
“The ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ operation is not limited to identifying gangs or their networks; its main aim is to eliminate the existence of gangs from Punjab,” stated Promod Ban, ADGP of the Anti-Gangster Task Force. He maintained that every member of the force is committed to intensifying these operations to ensure resident safety.
The crackdown has resulted in the recovery of 408 firearms, six hand grenades, and 2.5 kg of explosives. Beyond weaponry, the police seized 378 kg of heroin and over 12 lakh intoxicant tablets, striking a simultaneous blow to the state’s drug trade. Officials also confiscated over ₹1.5 crore in cash and drug money, along with 31 drones used for illicit activities.
Promod Ban affirmed that the use of technology, including Artificial Intelligence, has provided the police with extensive data to track criminals swiftly. He asserted that there is no space for “gangster culture” in Punjab and that the disruption of funding and networks remains a top priority.
