962 gangster module busted, 3 cops martyred: DGP Yadav

Punjab Police has recorded 324 encounters with gangsters since April 2022, resulting in the neutralisation of 24 dreaded criminals and the arrest of 515 others, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav disclosed on Thursday.

In a first-time disclosure of such figures, the DGP said Punjab Police has busted 962 gangster modules, arrested 2,536 criminals and recovered a large haul of arms, drugs and cash over the past three-and-a-half years. The data assumes significance amid renewed concerns over rampant gangsterism in Punjab, with the state government recently suspending an SSP in Amritsar Rural district for alleged inaction against gangsters.

DGP Gaurav Yadav said police teams seized 2,086 illegal weapons, 564 vehicles used in criminal activities, 79 kg heroin and ₹4.69 crore in drug money from the possession of the arrested accused.

“Of the 515 gangsters arrested during encounters, 319 had sustained bullet injuries. Sadly, three brave police personnel laid down their lives and 41 others were injured in these operations,” the DGP said.

He credited the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) for spearheading intelligence-led operations across Punjab and in other states, leading to the systematic dismantling of gangster networks.

“The state government and Punjab Police are fully committed to eradicating gangster culture and ensuring a fear-free environment for the people of the state,” DGP Yadav asserted.