Chandigarh, Jan 20 (NationPress) Following significant advancements in the ongoing anti-drugs initiative 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' (war against drugs), the Punjab Police have initiated a comprehensive campaign against gangsters, dubbed 'Gangstara Te War', with the objective of achieving a gangster-free state.

During the announcement of this campaign, Punjab's Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav stated on Tuesday that a large-scale operation against gangsters has commenced.

Approximately 2,000 police teams, consisting of over 12,000 personnel, are executing raids at predetermined locations associated with affiliates of 60 foreign-based gangsters throughout the region.

These operations form part of the 72-hour-long Operation Prahaar.

DGP Yadav, alongside Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla, ADGP (Anti-Gangster Task Force) Promod Ban, and IGP (Headquarters) Sukhchain Singh Gill, informed the press, "The government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's leadership, has declared a well-thought-out war against gangsters to dismantle their entire framework, including financing, logistics, safe houses, weapon supply chains, and communication networks."

In a warning directed at foreign-based gangsters, DGP Yadav stated, "These gangsters should not feel secure abroad. They will soon be brought back to Punjab to confront justice."

He elaborated that the police have pinpointed 60 foreign-based gangsters who are orchestrating criminal activities in Punjab through their local partners.

"To expedite their extradition, the Punjab Police has set up an Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell (OFTEC), managed by DIG (Counter Intelligence) Ashish Choudhary. These gangsters will be returned to Punjab for legal proceedings," he commented.

DGP Yadav provided additional information, stating that Red Corner Notices have either been issued or are in progress against 23 identified gangsters.

"The process of issuing Red Corner Notices for the remaining 37 foreign-based gangsters will be completed within the next three months in a timely manner," he assured.

Addressing the youth directly, DGP Yadav urged individuals who have been misled to forsake the criminal path and reintegrate into society.

"I implore misguided youth not to fall victim to foreign-based gangsters, who, from their safe havens abroad, entice you with small rewards to commit serious crimes. Remember, crime does not pay," he cautioned, warning that those who resist reform will face stringent repercussions.

Additionally, DGP Yadav inaugurated an Anti-Gangster Helpline number -- 93946-93946, allowing citizens to anonymously report information regarding wanted criminals and gangsters, as well as share tips about criminal activities.

A monetary reward of up to Rs 10 lakh will be offered for information leading to the capture of gangsters, he concluded.