The Punjab government on Tuesday intensified its crackdown on organised crime with the launch of a statewide action plan targeting gangsters and their support systems. Drawing inspiration from its war against drugs campaign, the state has rolled out Punjab Operation Prahar anti-gangster drive, aimed at dismantling every layer of the criminal ecosystem.
Addressing a press conference, Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav confirmed that coordinated raids were underway across the state. As many as 12,000 police personnel have been deployed under the special operation to target weapon supply chains, financing routes, safe houses, logistics networks and communication channels linked to gang activity, strengthening Punjab Operation Prahar anti-gangster drive.
Zero Tolerance Against Gang Networks
DGP Yadav made it clear that the police would not limit their action to shooters or frontline criminals. He said those aiding, abetting, financing or sheltering gangsters would face strict action under the law.
According to Yadav, the strategy mirrors the success of the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, under which over 31,527 FIRs have been registered and more than 45,251 accused arrested so far. He said tackling gangsters has become a parallel priority for the state, giving further momentum to Punjab Operation Prahar anti-gangster drive.
Arrests And International Tracking
The police chief revealed that 925 gangsters were arrested in 2025 alone due to sustained intelligence-led operations. He added that Punjab Police would pursue criminals hiding anywhere in India or abroad.
To strengthen global tracking, the state has announced the formation of an Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell. The unit will be headed by Counter-Intelligence Inspector General Ashish Chaudhary and will focus on gangsters operating from foreign soil, reinforcing Punjab Operation Prahar anti-gangster drive.
Public Participation And Helpline Launch
To involve citizens directly, Punjab Police has launched an Anti-Gangster Helpline — 93946-93946. The helpline will operate round the clock, allowing people to share credible information related to gang activities. The identity of informers will remain confidential.
Yadav said the state aims to replicate the visible progress made against drugs and apply the same pressure against organised crime. “We will not leave any space for gangsters. Their entire network will be eliminated,” he said while reiterating the long-term vision of Punjab Operation Prahar anti-gangster drive.
FAQs
Q: What is Punjab Operation Prahar anti-gangster drive?
A: It is a statewide police operation targeting gangsters and their entire support system, including weapons, funding and safe houses.
Q: How many police personnel are involved in Punjab Operation Prahar anti-gangster drive?
A: Around 12,000 Punjab Police personnel are participating in coordinated raids across the state.
Q: What is the Anti-Gangster Helpline launched under this drive?
A: The helpline number 93946-93946 allows citizens to share confidential information related to gang activities.
Q: Will Punjab Police pursue gangsters hiding abroad?
A: Yes, a new Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell has been set up to trace and extradite gangsters.
