As India prepares to mark Independence Day on August 15, Delhi Police have launched a massive crackdown under "Operation Shastra", arresting 52 people and registering 41 cases, turning the national celebrations into a headache even for ordinary Indian citizens.  Police said the operation was aimed at targeting criminals involved in street crime, illegal arms trade and other unlawful activities, and to "strengthen preventive security" ahead of August 15. 

Officials said 15 illegal firearms, 26 live cartridges and nine knives were recovered during raids across several areas including Aman Vihar, Prem Nagar, Begumpur, Kanjhawala, Prashant Vihar, Budh Vihar, K N Katju Marg, South Rohini, Vijay Vihar and North Rohini.   Police claimed to have seized a large quantity of illicit liquor and registered cases under the Excise Act, Gambling Act and NDPS Act.

A senior police officer said country-made pistols and cartridges were recovered from several accused. In one case, a stolen scooter and a mobile phone were also seized.  Police identified one of the accused as Rahul Sehrawat, described as an active member of the Neeraj Bawaniya and Naveen Bali gangs.  Another accused, Vipin alias Lala or Pankaj, apprehended by the K N Katju Marg unit, allegedly has 26 previous cases including four under the Arms Act, nine snatching cases, one robbery, 11 theft cases and one Excise Act case.

He is also a proclaimed offender in a Shahbad Dairy case.  Manish Saini alias Lallu, another accused, reportedly has 10 cases including three under the Arms Act, four robbery cases and three theft cases. Police said several other apprehended persons had criminal antecedents, including history-sheeters and bad characters.   Further investigation and preventive action are underway.  

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)