Delhi Police arrest 285, seize weapons and drugs in massive pre-New Year crackdown

As the national capital prepares for New Year celebrations, Delhi Police launched a sweeping overnight crackdown across vulnerable pockets, arresting hundreds of suspects and seizing weapons, drugs, stolen property and vehicles in a bid to deter crime during the festive rush.

The intensified operation, Operation Aaghat 3.0, was carried out by the South East Delhi Police, with coordinated raids, naka checks and intelligence-led searches targeting organised crime syndicates, street offenders and habitual lawbreakers.

Hundreds arrested under multiple laws

Police said 285 accused were arrested under various provisions of the Arms Act, Excise Act, NDPS Act and Gambling Act during the operation. In addition, 504 people were detained under preventive action to avert potential offences linked to New Year gatherings.

As part of focused action against repeat offenders, police picked up 116 listed bad characters, while 10 property offenders and five auto-lifters were also arrested.

Weapons, drugs and stolen property seized

The crackdown led to major recoveries, including 21 country-made pistols, 20 live cartridges and 27 knives. Police teams also seized consignments of illegal drugs and liquor, pointing to attempts to flood the market ahead of celebrations.

In a significant recovery drive, police traced and seized 310 mobile phones reported stolen, snatched or lost.

Vehicle theft networks hit

Striking at vehicle theft rackets, police seized or recovered 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler during extensive road checks and searches across the district.

Overall, 1,306 people were rounded up under preventive measures as police teams fanned out through the night, conducting verifications and targeted raids based on local intelligence inputs.

Senior police officers said Operation Aaghat 3.0 was designed as a preventive and deterrent exercise, aimed at ensuring public safety during the New Year period, which traditionally witnesses a spike in movement and criminal activity across the city.