Delhi Police Launch Massive Pre-New Year Crackdown, Arrest Hundreds

Delhi Police launched a major preemptive security operation named Op Aaghat 3.0 on the night of December 26-27, 2025, resulting in the arrest of at least 285 accused individuals across vulnerable areas of the national capital. The intensified crackdown was specifically designed to ensure crime-free New Year celebrations by targeting potential troublemakers, habitual offenders, and networks involved in illegal activities. Coordinated raids were conducted in multiple districts, focusing on hotspots prone to crime during festive periods, and led to significant recoveries of contraband, weapons, and stolen property.

Among the key seizures were 21 illegal weapons—including 21 country-made pistols, 20 live cartridges, and 27 knives—along with over 12,000 quarters (bottles) of illicit liquor, approximately 7 kg of cannabis (6 kg of ganja and additional quantities), and around Rs 2.5 lakh in cash. The operation also dismantled aspects of vehicle theft networks, with police arresting five auto-lifters and recovering 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler. Additionally, authorities recovered 210 stolen or lost mobile phones and Rs 2.3 lakh in cash linked to gambling activities, demonstrating a comprehensive effort to curb multiple crime streams ahead of the year-end festivities.

A total of 504 persons were detained for preventive questioning, while 1,306 individuals were rounded up under various preventive measures to maintain public order. Special emphasis was placed on habitual offenders, with 116 "bad characters" taken into custody and 10 property offenders arrested. The arrests were made under relevant provisions of the Arms Act, Excise Act, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and Gambling Act, reflecting a multi-pronged legal approach to neutralize threats before they could disrupt public celebrations.

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Delhi Police officials described the operation as a proactive measure to create a safe environment for New Year revelry, particularly in areas known for higher crime incidence during festive occasions. By focusing on illegal weapons, narcotics, illicit liquor, gambling dens, and vehicle theft gangs, authorities aim to prevent incidents of violence, robbery, drunken driving, and other disturbances that often spike during such events. The scale of the crackdown—involving hundreds of arrests and extensive recoveries—underscores the police's commitment to zero-tolerance policing in the lead-up to January 1, 2026.

The success of Op Aaghat 3.0 is expected to serve as a deterrent to criminal elements planning to exploit the festive atmosphere. Police have indicated that similar operations may continue in the coming days to sustain the momentum and ensure that Delhi remains secure for residents and visitors alike during the New Year celebrations. As the city prepares for large public gatherings, fireworks, and parties, this overnight action marks a significant step toward maintaining law and order.

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