In a significant blow to organized crime in the region, the Panchkula Police have concluded a highly successful month-long special drive, resulting in dozens of arrests and major seizures. The intensive crackdown, codenamed Operation Clean Up, saw all crime units of the district working in a coordinated manner throughout November to dismantle criminal networks operating in the area.
Major Haul of Weapons and Narcotics
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Manpreet Singh Sudan, the operation led to the recovery of a substantial cache of illegal items that were destined for illicit activities. The police managed to intercept a dangerous arsenal of firearms before they could be used. The seized illegal weapons included:
- Five country-made pistols
- Four country-made ‘kattas'
- One country-made revolver
- 16 live cartridges
- A knife
Officials stated that these weapons were likely to be used in upcoming criminal acts, and their timely seizure helped avert potential major incidents.
The narcotics haul was equally staggering, aimed at disrupting the drug supply chain in Panchkula and neighbouring states. The recovered drugs comprised:
- 988 grams of charas
- 410 grams of heroin
- 6.67 kilograms of poppy husk
- 1.34 kilograms of opium
Wide-Ranging Recoveries and Arrests
The police action spanned 64 separate cases, leading to the arrest of 89 accused individuals. Among those apprehended were several wanted and notorious offenders who had been evading the law. The month-long field presence of the crime units proved highly effective in tracking down these elements.
Beyond weapons and drugs, the operation led to the recovery of a variety of stolen property and vehicles, indicating the broad scope of criminal activities being targeted. The recovered items include:
- Vehicles: One auto-rickshaw, four e-rickshaws, three cars, one tractor, and a motorcycle.
- Cash: Rs 5.44 lakh in cash.
- Illicit Liquor: 462 bottles.
- Jewellery: Valuables worth approximately Rs 8 lakh.
- Other Items: Household goods worth lakhs of rupees and five mobile phones.
Restoring Property to Rightful Owners
Following the successful operation, the Panchkula Police have initiated the next crucial phase. They have begun the process of returning the identified stolen items to their rightful owners. This procedure is being carried out meticulously in accordance with the established legal protocol, ensuring that recovered assets are restored to the victims of these crimes.
The success of Operation Clean Up highlights the police force's sustained focus on field intelligence and coordinated action. The large-scale recoveries and arrests are expected to significantly disrupt criminal operations and enhance public safety in Panchkula district for the foreseeable future.
