How Punjab's 'Gangstran Te Vaar' Is Closing The Noose Around Organised Crime
News india How Punjab's 'Gangstran Te Vaar' Is Closing The Noose Around Organised Crime How Punjab's 'Gangstran Te Vaar' Is Closing The Noose Around Organised
News india How Punjab's 'Gangstran Te Vaar' Is Closing The Noose Around Organised Crime How Punjab's 'Gangstran Te Vaar' Is Closing The Noose Around Organised Crime Published By, Last Updated: August 08, 2026, 14:24 IST Punjab Police’s 200-day anti-gang drive saw 1.09 lakh raids, 1,532 arrests and major seizures of arms and drugs, targeting organised crime networks and their support systems. Rapid Read Punjab government has launched a program to apprehend gangsters in the state. (Image source: AFP) Punjab Police’s anti-gangster campaign ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ has completed 200 days, during which over 1.09 lakh raids were conducted across the state and 1,532 proclaimed offenders were arrested, according to an official statement issued on August 8. The police said action was taken against more than 58,000 individuals, including gangsters, their associates and other wanted criminals, as part of the drive aimed at tackling organised crime networks.
In total, over one lakh people came under police action during the period, including detentions, verifications and arrests. What Is The Campaign About? The campaign, launched by the Punjab government, focuses on intelligence-led policing and targets not just individual offenders but the wider ecosystem supporting organised crime, including financial channels, logistics and communication networks. During the operation, Punjab Police recovered 990 illegal firearms, along with ammunition, explosives and 15 hand grenades. Authorities also reported significant seizures linked to the drug trade, including over 774 kg of heroin, 480 kg of opium and large quantities of poppy husk and intoxicant tablets. Cash, alleged drug proceeds and small quantities of gold were also seized. Officials said the crackdown also included action against illicit liquor and the seizure of mobile phones, vehicles and drones allegedly used in criminal activities, indicating efforts to disrupt infrastructure linked to organised crime.
Wider Scope Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said the campaign was aimed at dismantling organised crime networks by targeting their support systems, including finances and overseas links. Additional DGP Pramod Ban said investigations were increasingly focusing on financial tracking, digital communication and coordination with central agencies to identify handlers operating from abroad. Police also highlighted coordination with other states and central agencies, as well as the deportation of wanted criminals from abroad, as part of the operation’s outcomes. As part of public outreach, the Anti-Gangster Task Force has introduced a tipline and a reward policy to encourage citizens to share information on criminal activities. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Location: Amritsar, India, India First Published: August 08, 2026, 14:24 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s.
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