Police to crack whip on social media glorification of gangsters

In response to the rising incidents of crime in Jammu and neighbouring districts, the police have pledged to take stringent action against social media handles that glorify gangsters. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Shiv Kumar Sharma, during a high-level meeting to address the growing crime wave, directed the police to initiate legal action against such social media accounts.

The meeting, aimed at curbing crime, was attended by top officials, including the SSP Jammu, SP North, SP South, SP HQ, SP Rural, SP Operations, and all DSPs and SDPOs. Officials from intelligence agencies also provided insights into gangsters’ activities, financial networks, weaponry, vehicles, shelters and communication methods.

DIG Sharma emphasised the importance of focused efforts to tackle gangsters, drug peddlers, thieves, vehicle lifters, and other anti-social elements. He instructed the police to maintain updated lists of offenders to ensure continuous surveillance on their activities. Additionally, the DIG urged officials to dismantle the criminal financial networks by seizing properties accumulated through illegal activities such as extortion, land grabbing and property dealing.

In light of recent thefts, shootings, and robberies in Jammu, Sharma called for a mission-oriented approach to eliminate the drug menace, urging officials to intensify efforts to identify and disrupt illicit drug trade networks. He also directed police to strengthen checkpoints in their areas and establish new nakas where necessary.

The meeting concluded with instructions to closely monitor the activities of Over Ground Workers (OGWs), history-sheeters, and troublemakers to ensure the safety and security of the region.