In a bid to make the metropolis drug-free, the Punjab Police has intensified its campaign against criminals and drug addicts. As part of this ongoing drive, the police administration executed a major and bold operation on Thursday, completely demolishing—with the aid of JCB machines—dilapidated rooms that had become safe havens for drug users. During this significant operation, ACP Raj Kumar and Gagandeep Malhotra, the SHO of Police Station Division No. 7, personally remained stationed at the site alongside a heavy police contingent. This “yellow claw” (the JCB) of the police force roared openly along the banks of the Budha Dariya and in the Jagdish Nagar locality, both falling under the jurisdiction of Police Station Division No. 7.
**A Long-Running Saga of Nefarious Activities; Locals Lived Under the Shadow of Fear**
According to reports, these abandoned and dilapidated rooms had long been utilized by anti-social elements for drug consumption and for carrying out various other illegal activities. The congregation of drug addicts at this spot had made life miserable for nearby residents, fostering a constant atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the area. Local residents had been submitting continuous written and verbal complaints to the police, highlighting that the location had effectively transformed into a den of crime. Taking these public grievances seriously, the police—fully prepared—cordoned off the area early Thursday morning; they brought in JCBs and demolished the entire illegal structure in a matter of moments. Throughout the operation, a heavy deployment of police personnel remained on standby at the site to handle any untoward incidents or potential resistance.
**Temporary Police Post to be Established Along Budha Dariya; Discussions to be Held with MLA: ACP**
Speaking to *Punjab Kesari* while present at the scene, ACP Raj Kumar clarified that the ongoing campaign against drugs would now be further strengthened. Unveiling a major plan, officials announced that work is proceeding rapidly on a proposal to establish a permanent police outpost along the banks of the Budha Dariya to maintain a constant vigil over criminal elements. Special consultations regarding the construction of this security post will soon be held with the local MLA to expedite the necessary procedures concerning funding and site allocation.
**Police Action to Continue; Stern Warning Issued to Criminals**
Issuing a categorical warning, ACP Raj Kumar and SHO Gagandeep Malhotra stated that the sole objective of the police is to completely and permanently eradicate drugs, drug traffickers, and crime from the area. They clarified that this is merely the beginning; in the days to come, similar bulldozer-led operations will continue unabated wherever such illegal hideouts or dens of drug users are discovered. Following this swift police action, local residents have breathed a sigh of relief, and this initiative by the police administration is receiving widespread appreciation from all quarters.
