12,000 cops, 72 hours: Punjab Police launch Operation Prahar to crack down on gangsters

Scale and immediate actions

As part of the launch, 2,000 police teams comprising 12,000 personnel are actively operating across Punjab in this coordinated 72-hour phase. The focus targets:
– 60 main gangsters currently based abroad.
– Their 1,200 associates and 600 family members involved in criminal activities.

Authorities have committed to a thorough interrogation of arrested criminals and their associates, leading to the arrest of all identified individuals. The operation is described as unprecedented in scale across India—no similar nationwide or state-level action of this magnitude has been planned or executed before.

Comprehensive busting of gangster ecosystem

Operation Prahar aims to completely bust the ecosystem supporting gangsters, including:
– Safe houses used for hiding and planning.
– Weapon supply chains.
– Financing networks and money laundering of proceeds of crime.

The police said there will be zero tolerance for aiders, abetters, or anyone with even minor involvement (high or small). This includes strict action against those who provide logistical, financial, or other support.

Actions against gangsters abroad

Gangsters operating from foreign shores will face the full force of the law, the police said.

Key measures include:
– Establishment of an overseas coordination cell to coordinate international efforts.
– Issuance of Interpol notices and extradition requests.
– Of the 60 key gangsters abroad, 23 Red Corner Notices (RCNs) have already been issued, with the remaining 37 to follow shortly.
– Identification and deportation of gangsters in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Appeal to youth and crackdown on facilitators

The DGP has appealed to the youth involved in or drawn toward gangster activities: If they wish to return to the mainstream, they should do so immediately, as a total crackdown begins today.

Special focus includes:

– Crackdown on criminal financing: Proceeds of crime, funding sources, and money laundering will be seized and attached under relevant laws.
– Travel agents aiding gangsters’ escape: Several have been identified, and a major crackdown is underway against them for facilitating illegal exits and operations.

Incentives and rewards for police personnel

To motivate officers:
– A reward policy of Rs 10 crore has been announced for successful actions against drugs and gangsters.
– SSPs can recommend cash awards up to Rs 1 lakh.
– Commissioners of Police and DIG ranges can announce rewards up to Rs 1.50 lakh.
– Awards above Rs 2 lakh require DGP approval.
– Rewards extend to seizures of drugs, successful convictions, and outstanding performance.
– Out-of-turn promotions and additional cash incentives for police officials involved in crackdowns.

Anti-gangster helpline

A dedicated anti-gangster helpline — 9394693946 — has been launched. It operates 24×7, allowing citizens to provide information on gangsters, associates, or activities. The identity of informers will be kept strictly secret to encourage reporting.

The DGP said the operation reflects Punjab Police’s intensified resolve—building on prior efforts like arrests, module busts, and international coordination—to eradicate gangster influence, protect citizens, and restore law and order in the state.

“It signals a no-holds-barred, multi-pronged strategy combining domestic raids, financial disruptions, international pressure, and community involvement,” he said.