Punjab : As the state government’s intensive anti-gangster drive “Gangstran Te Vaar” entered its 17th day, Punjab Police on Thursday carried out 681 raids at pre-identified and mapped locations connected to associates of gangsters across the state.
The campaign, launched on January 20, 2026, under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, aims to eliminate gangster networks and make Punjab crime-free. The special operation is being led by DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav, with Punjab Police teams from all districts working in coordination with the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF).
On Day 17 of the campaign, police arrested 274 persons and recovered four weapons along with 11 live cartridges. With these arrests, the total number of individuals apprehended since the launch of the drive has risen to 4,649. In addition, preventive action was taken against 135 persons, while 248 individuals were verified and released after questioning. Police teams also arrested 27 proclaimed offenders (POs) during the operation.
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Punjab Police has urged citizens to cooperate by sharing information related to gangsters, wanted criminals, and criminal activities. Tips can be provided anonymously through the Anti-Gangster Helpline at 93946-93946.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Police also continued their anti-drug campaign “Yudh Nashian Virudh”, which completed its 341st day on Thursday. As part of the drive, 95 drug smugglers were arrested, and police recovered 445 grams of heroin, 516 intoxicant tablets and capsules, and ₹39,020 in drug money.
Today, Punjab Police has launched an Anti-Gangster helpline seeking public cooperation to share information directly on 93946-93946 to help apprehend wanted criminals.
All information will be treated with strict confidentiality, and the identity of informants will be kept…
— DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) January 20, 2026
With these arrests, the total number of drug smugglers apprehended under the campaign has reached 47,784 in just 341 days. Additionally, 27 individuals were motivated to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse.