On Tuesday, 20 January 2026, the Punjab Police launched “Operation Prahar,” a high-intensity 72-hour statewide crackdown aimed at completely eliminating organised crime and gangster networks.
Directed by DGP Gaurav Yadav, nearly 12,000 police personnel organised into 2,000 special teams have been deployed to conduct coordinated raids across all 28 police districts.
The operation specifically targets the “ecosystem” of crime, including 60 major gangsters based abroad and their 1,200 local associates. Within hours of the launch, encounters were reported in Jalandhar and Mandi Gobindgarh, leading to multiple arrests and injuries to suspects involved in cross-border conspiracies.
Targeting The Global Nexus
Operation Prahar is not merely a local policing effort but a strategic offensive against the transnational links that fuel violence in Punjab. Authorities have identified 60 key gangsters operating from foreign shores, particularly in North America and Europe, who orchestrate extortions and targeted killings through local modules.
By mapping nearly 1,200 associates and 600 family-linked locations, the police intend to choke the supply of weapons and funds that sustain these criminals.
This operation follows the Punjab Police’s “Vision 2026” roadmap, which aims to leverage technology-driven infrastructure and international coordination to bring overseas fugitives to justice.
Incentives For Integrity
To bolster the morale of the force and encourage community participation, DGP Gaurav Yadav has announced an unprecedented reward policy. A fund of ₹10 crore has been set aside for successful actions against gangsters and drug cartels, with cash awards ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh for outstanding performance by officers.
“We will not leave any place for gangsters in Punjab,” the DGP stated, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy even for police officials found aiding criminals.
Additionally, a dedicated helpline (93946-93946) has been launched for citizens to share anonymous tips, ensuring that the fight against crime remains a collaborative public effort.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At The Logical Indian, we believe that the safety of our communities is a fundamental right that must be protected with both resolve and responsibility.
While the scale of Operation Prahar demonstrates a necessary commitment to law and order, we must also reflect on the socio-economic factors that draw youth toward gangster culture. True peace is achieved not just by dismantling criminal modules but by fostering an environment of opportunity and dialogue that prevents radicalisation at its root.
We support the brave personnel working to restore harmony and urge the administration to ensure that these crackdowns are accompanied by long-term rehabilitation and social reform.
