Chandigarh: The Punjab Police intensified its statewide crackdown on gang networks as the ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign completed its 26th day on Sunday. Acting under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police teams carried out 571 raids at identified locations associated with gangster operatives across the state.
The campaign, launched on January 20, 2026, by Director General of Punjab Police Gaurav Yadav, aims to eliminate gangster activity and restore law and order. District police units, working in coordination with the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), have been conducting coordinated operations throughout Punjab.
On the 26th day alone, authorities arrested 193 individuals and seized three weapons. Since the launch of the drive, total arrests have climbed to 9,437. Preventive action was initiated against 66 persons, while 108 individuals were questioned and later released after verification. Additionally, nine proclaimed offenders were apprehended during the operation.
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The public has been encouraged to assist law enforcement by sharing information about wanted criminals or suspicious activities through the Anti-Gangster Helpline at 93946-93946, with the assurance of anonymity.
44 Drug Smugglers Arrested Under ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ Drive : Punjab Police
In a parallel anti-drug campaign titled ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh,’ Punjab Police continued its operations on the 351st day by arresting 44 drug traffickers on Sunday. During the raids, police recovered 20.7 kilograms of heroin, 210 intoxicant tablets or capsules, and ₹2.28 lakh in drug money.
With these latest arrests, the total number of drug smugglers held under the campaign has reached 49,674 in just 351 days. As part of its de-addiction initiative, the Punjab Police also persuaded 19 individuals to seek treatment and rehabilitation support.