Punjab Police on Tuesday launched Operation Prahar, a decisive 72-hour statewide crackdown on gangsters and organised criminal networks, with senior officials declaring an unequivocal “war” on crime outfits that have long plagued the state.

Announcing the action, Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said the operation aligns with “Punjab Police’s Vision 2026” — a strategic commitment to the strongest-ever enforcement actions against criminal syndicates, especially those with overseas bases, cross-border links, and external backing.

“We will not leave any place for gangsters in Punjab,” he said, stressing that the campaign has no fixed time limit and will continue until the state is free of organised crime.

For the first phase of the operation, roughly 12,000 police personnel in about 2,000 teams have been deployed across all 28 districts of Punjab. These teams are conducting raids, searches, and detentions targeting identified gang leaders, their associates, and suspected hideouts.

The police have identified around 60 key gangsters based overseas — often accused of directing criminal activities remotely — and 1,200 associates within the state as primary targets.

In addition to raids on suspects’ hideouts, more than 600 properties linked to family members or supporters of gangsters are being searched under judicial and police warrants, to disrupt financial support and shelter networks.

Authorities said efforts will be made to scrutinise proceeds from criminal activities and initiate action to attach properties unlawfully acquired by criminal elements.

The DGP also called on mid- and low-level criminal associates to surrender, offering pathways for reintegration into society under appropriate legal conditions.

Officials emphasised that the operation is being conducted professionally, respecting legal procedures and human rights, but with zero tolerance for crime.

Senior police officers said that intelligence units are working round-the-clock to track movements and finances of gang networks and coordinating with central agencies to locate fugitives abroad.

The operation marks one of the most expansive mobilisations against organised crime in recent Punjab history, as authorities seek to restore public safety and confidence.