Chandigarh: Punjab Police have launched a statewide 72-hour operation against gangsters, leading to multiple encounters and the detention of suspects in different districts. Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav announced on Monday that around 2,000 police teams have been deployed across the state to act against gangsters, their associates, and family members allegedly linked to their criminal activities.
During the operation, two suspected attackers were intercepted in Jalandhar in connection with a firing incident on a police party. One of the accused was injured in cross-firing, while his accomplice managed to escape. Police said the suspects were involved in a shooting incident targeting Sukchain Singh, who had recently returned to India from the UK. Investigators revealed that the conspiracy had links abroad, with financial transactions traced to a UK-based youth named Beant. Police alleged that Beant arranged the shooting through his associate Channa, who resides in the Philippines.
Separately, two encounters were reported in Jalandhar and Mandi Gobindgarh soon after the operation began. In Mandi Gobindgarh, police teams had taken a gangster named Shiva for weapon recovery when he allegedly opened fire on the police. A Home Guard jawan was injured in the attack. Police retaliated, injuring the gangster in cross-firing before arresting him.
DGP Yadav said the operation aims to send a strong message that gang-related activities will not be tolerated in Punjab. He also announced a special helpline number, 93946-93946, urging citizens to share information related to gangsters. Calling it a “final opportunity” for youth involved in crime to return to the mainstream, the DGP warned that Punjab Police will show zero tolerance going forward.
He further cautioned gangsters against believing they are safe even while operating from abroad, asserting that Punjab has no place for organized crime and those involved will be pursued relentlessly.
