What is Operation Aaghat 3.0? Delhi Police arrests over 200 in big crackdown ahead of New Year

In a big crackdown by the Delhi Police under Operation Aaghat 3.0, more than 200 criminals were arrested, while at least 500 others were apprehended as part of preventive measures ahead of New Year celebrations in the national capital. The crackdown was aimed at maintaining public order by curbing various forms of criminal activity.

Among the arrested, a majority had connections to illegal activities, including drug and property offences. The arrests were made under the Excise Act, Gambling Act, and NDPS Act, said Hemant Tiwari, DCP South East. Police also arrested 116 people categorised as “bad characters,” while 10 others were held for possession of stolen property and five for car theft, according to news agency ANI.

“285 accused have been arrested under the Excise Act, Gambling Act, and NDPS Act. A total of 504 persons were held under preventive action, whereas 116 bad characters were also apprehended," Tiwari was quoted as saying by ANI.

Operation Aaghat 3.0 | Key Outcomes from the South-East District-
285 accused arrested under the Excise Act, NDPS Act & Gambling Act. 504 persons apprehended under preventive action. 116 Bad Characters (BCs) apprehended. 10 property offenders and five auto-lifters arrested.… pic.twitter.com/XVTHulCBPC

— ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2025

What is Operation Aaghat 3.0?

Operation Aaghat 3.0 is a special law enforcement drive carried out by the South Delhi District of the Delhi Police aimed at maintaining public order and tackling different kinds of criminal activity. Its purpose is to enforce the Excise Act, the Gambling Act, and the NDPS Act. As part of the drive, the Delhi Police made multiple arrests of people linked to illegal activities.

Major recoveries under Aaghat 3.0

Sharing pictures of the recoveries made following the crackdown, the Delhi Police informed that 21 homemade pistols, ganja (6.01 kilograms), illegal liquor (12,258 quarters), 27 knives, and 20 live cartridges were seized during the operation. The police also seized a four-wheeler, 231 two-wheelers, and 310 phones, and recovered Rs 2,30,990 from gamblers. As many as 1,306 people were arrested as part of preventive measures under the operation.