Punjab Police Launches Operation Prahar, 72-Hour War Against Gangsters

January 20, 2026

Chandigarh: The Punjab Police on Tuesday launched a major 72-hour statewide operation, Operation Prahar, to crack down on gangsters and organized crime. Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav announced the operation at a press conference, calling it an “all-out war” to make Punjab gangster-free.

The DGP said the operation is part of the Punjab Police’s Vision 2026 and specifically targets gangsters operating from abroad with the support of cross-border networks.

‘No place for gangsters in Punjab’

DGP Gaurav Yadav said the police have declared an all-out war against gangsters.

“We will leave no place for gangsters in Punjab,” he said, adding that the operation has no time limit and will continue until the entire gangster ecosystem is dismantled.

He said the operation would be professional and intelligence-based, involving targeted strikes against gangsters and their support systems.

Massive deployment across the state

Under the 72-hour operation, approximately 2,000 special police teams, comprising around 12,000 personnel, have been deployed across Punjab.

The operation focuses on:

60 top gangsters currently abroad

Approximately 1,200 associates

600 family members found to be involved in criminal activities

Police said all suspects will be thoroughly interrogated and arrests will be made wherever evidence is found.

Complete dismantling of the gangster ecosystem

Operation Prahar aims to dismantle the entire system supporting gangsters, including:

Safe houses

Illegal arms supply chains

Crime funding and money laundering networks

The DGP said there would be zero tolerance for anyone assisting gangsters, big or small.

Strict action against gangsters residing abroad

The Punjab Police will also take strict action against gangsters hiding abroad. Key steps include:

Establishing an Overseas Fugitive Smuggling and Extradition Cell (OFTEC)

Issuing Interpol Red Corner Notices

Red Corner Notices have already been issued against 23 gangsters; more will be issued soon.

Efforts to identify and deport gangsters hiding in South-East Asia and Middle Eastern countries.

The DGP said that gangsters living abroad should not think they are safe.

Reports of Encounters in Punjab

Immediately after Operation Prahar was launched, reports of police encounters emerged from Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Mandi Gobindgarh.

In Amritsar, notorious gangster Mani Prince was killed in an encounter after firing at the police. Police said he had around 50 criminal cases registered against him.

In Mandi Gobindgarh, gangster Shiva fired at the police while being taken to recover weapons. A Home Guard jawan was injured. Police retaliated and arrested the gangster after injuring him.

In Jalandhar, two suspects fired at the police. One accused, Karan, was injured and arrested, while his accomplice managed to escape.

Strict Action Against Crime Financiers and Travel Agents

Police will take strict action against:

Crime financing and money laundering

Properties and businesses linked to gangsters

Illegal travel agents who help gangsters flee abroad

The DGP said that several such travel agents have already been identified.

Appeal to Youth

DGP Gaurav Yadav appealed to young people involved in gangster activities to immediately return to the mainstream.

He warned, “This is the last chance,” as strict action has been initiated across the state.

Social Media Under Scrutiny

Police will also take action against those promoting crime on social media. Over 10,000 posts displaying weapons or promoting crime have been removed.

Thousands of social media accounts have been shut down.

Raids and operations conducted in jails outside Punjab.

The DGP stated that the raids would not be limited to Punjab. Gangsters and their associates hiding in other states will also be brought to Punjab.

Steps are also being taken to curb the activities of gangsters operating from jails, including the installation of jammers and strengthening de-addiction centers.

Reward Policy for Police Personnel

To motivate police personnel, the Punjab government has approved a reward policy of ₹10 crore.

SSPs can give rewards up to ₹1 lakh.

Police Commissioners and DIGs can give rewards up to ₹1.5 lakh.

Higher rewards require the approval of the DGP.

Rewards will be given for arrests, drug seizures, convictions, and property attachments.

Anti-Gangster Helpline Launched

A 24×7 anti-gangster helpline number, 93946-93946, has been launched. Citizens can share information about gangsters and criminal activities. The identity of informants will be kept confidential.

The DGP said that Operation Prahar demonstrates the Punjab Police’s firm resolve to restore peace and order in the state and sends a clear message that crime will not be tolerated.