New Delhi: In a massive pre-emptive strike ahead of Holi, the Southern Range of Delhi Police has launched Operation AAGHAT 4.0 — a synchronised, intelligence-led enforcement drive aimed at neutralising criminal elements before the festival.
The two-day operation, conducted across South and South-East districts, focused on bootleggers, drug peddlers, habitual offenders, property criminals, and proclaimed offenders. The strategy was clear: act before disruption occurs.
According to Joint Commissioner of Police Sanjay Kumar Jain, “Operation AAGHAT 4.0 was launched on March 1 and 2 to crack down on criminal elements ahead of Holi. Approximately 4,000 individuals were rounded up, with over 975 taken into preventive custody. More than 220 persons were arrested under the NDPS Act, Arms Act, Delhi Excise Act, BNS, and Gambling Act. Over 550 were prosecuted for public drinking, and 475 vehicles were seized under the DP Act.”
He further stated that 33 Arms Act cases were registered, leading to the recovery of 35 firearms and 23 knives. Around 60 bootlegging cases were filed, with more than 19,000 quarters of illicit liquor seized to prevent illegal sales during Holi.
DCP South East & Southern Range Hemant Tiwari emphasized that the operation reflects a preventive policing philosophy. “The objective is zero tolerance against hooliganism, drug peddling, illegal liquor trade, harassment, and traffic violations. We want Holi to be celebrated peacefully and safely. Law enforcement is fully alert and prepared.”
Key cumulative outcomes include:
• Over 4,000 persons rounded up during area domination drives
• 204+ arrests under BNS, Arms Act, NDPS Act and Excise Act
• 12+ illegal firearms, 7 kg ganja and MDMA recovered
• Nearly 16,000 illegal liquor quarters seized
• 9 stolen motorcycles and 20 mobile phones recovered
More than 350 police personnel were deployed in coordinated hotspot operations, with enhanced patrolling, barricading, naka checks, drunk-driving enforcement, and women police deployment at sensitive locations.
Police have also issued a strong public advisory urging citizens to avoid drunk driving, triple riding, forced smearing of colours, and public nuisance. Special emphasis has been placed on respecting consent and maintaining public order.
“Bura Na Mano, Sakhti Hai” — the message from Southern Range Police is clear: strict enforcement before Holi ensures peaceful celebrations across Delhi.
Authorities reiterated that citizens can report suspicious activity by dialling 112, assuring confidentiality of informants.
