Massive pre-New Year crackdown in Delhi: Hundreds arrested, weapons and drugs seized
The crackdown led to the recovery of 21 country-made pistols, 20 live cartridges and 27 knives
As Delhi prepares for New Year celebrations, South East Delhi Police conducted an extensive overnight crackdown to prevent crime during the festive rush.
The special drive, titled Operation Aaghat 3.0, focused on vulnerable areas across the district with coordinated raids, checks and surveillance.
Operation Aaghat 3.0 | Key Outcomes from the South-East District-
285 accused arrested under the Excise Act, NDPS Act & Gambling Act. 504 persons apprehended under preventive action. 116 Bad Characters (BCs) apprehended. 10 property offenders and five auto-lifters arrested.… pic.twitter.com/XVTHulCBPC
— ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2025
Police said 285 accused were arrested under various laws, including the Arms Act, Excise Act, NDPS Act and Gambling Act. In addition, 504 people were detained under preventive measures to avert potential offences during New Year gatherings.
Targeting habitual offenders, police picked up 116 listed bad characters, arrested 10 property offenders and five auto-lifters during the operation.
The crackdown led to the recovery of 21 country-made pistols, 20 live cartridges and 27 knives. Police also seized illegal liquor and narcotics, indicating attempts to circulate contraband ahead of celebrations.
In a major recovery drive, police retrieved 310 mobile phones reported stolen, snatched or lost. Action against vehicle theft networks resulted in the seizure or recovery of 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler.
Overall, 1,306 people were rounded up under preventive action as police teams conducted night-long checks and intelligence-based raids across the district.
Senior police officials said Operation Aaghat 3.0 was launched as a preventive and deterrent measure to ensure public safety during the New Year period, which typically witnesses increased movement and a spike in criminal activity.
