With Punjab on high alert ahead of upcoming assembly elections in neighbouring Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir, the Punjab Police has escalated its efforts to combat criminal activity through a robust special operation titled ‘OPS Seal-VIII’. The state police teams on Monday sealed 92 critical entry and exit points across 10 border districts, meticulously inspecting vehicles and targeting suspects involved in drug trafficking, liquor smuggling, and other illegal operations.
The extensive operation was conducted from 6 am to 2 pm, following directives from the state Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav. Over 1,000 police personnel were mobilized for this effort, with Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) from the border districts coordinating closely with their counterparts in neighbouring states and Union Territories (UTs).
Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla emphasized the significance of this synchronized operation, which was designed to curb the movement of anti-social elements and prevent criminal activities ahead of the elections. The operation aimed to not only prevent crime but also instill a sense of security among the public, he said.
During the operation, law enforcement set up well-coordinated nakas (checkpoints) across the state’s borders at sealing points under the supervision of gazetted officers or SHOs, focusing on the districts of Pathankot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Fazilka, Ropar, SAS Nagar, Patiala, Sangrur, Mansa, Hoshiarpur, and Bathinda.
Vehicles entering and exiting the state were subjected to thorough inspections, with police personnel verifying registration numbers using the VAHAN mobile app. Despite the scale of the operation, the police made efforts to minimize inconvenience to the public, instructing personnel to maintain a friendly and respectful demeanor during interactions with commuters.
The results of the operation were substantial. A total of 4,245 vehicles were checked, leading to 293 challans being issued, and 16 vehicles were impounded. Police registered 26 First Information Reports (FIRs) and arrested 27 individuals involved in criminal activities. Additionally, 401 suspicious individuals were detained for further questioning. The operation also yielded significant seizures, including 1.1 kg of opium, 29 kg of poppy husk, 42 kg of intoxicant powder, 1,070 intoxicant capsules and tablets, and large quantities of licit and illicit liquor.
Special DGP Shukla noted that such operations serve a dual purpose — they bolster the police presence on the ground, deterring criminal activity, while also creating a sense of safety for law-abiding citizens. Moving forward, Punjab Police remains committed to conducting similar operations to ensure that the state remains secure, especially during this crucial election period.
