UP Seizes Rs 15,233 Crore in Mafia Assets as Crime Crackdown Intensifies
The Uttar Pradesh government reports massive crackdown on crime, with over 23,000 criminals arrested and Rs 15,233 crore in illegal assets seized.
In a massive demonstration of its crackdown on organized crime, the Uttar Pradesh government has revealed that it has seized illegal assets worth Rs 15,233 crore belonging to criminals and mafia elements across the state. The detailed report, released on Saturday, outlines a multi-year campaign against lawlessness that has seen over 23,000 criminals arrested and significant damage dealt to mafia networks since 2017.
Massive Arrests and Police Encounters
The data released by the state administration highlights a period of intense police activity. Since March 20, 2017, the UP Police have been involved in numerous high-stakes operations to neutralize threats to public order. Key statistics from the government report include:
- Criminal Encounters: A total of 303 criminals have been killed in police encounters.
- Injuries: 12,202 criminals sustained injuries during various police operations.
- Fugitive Arrests: 23,601 criminals carrying cash rewards have been arrested and jailed.
The administration has also utilized stringent legal frameworks to dismantle criminal syndicates. Specifically, 87,835 criminals have faced action under the Gangsters Act, while 995 individuals have been booked under the National Security Act (NSA).
Dismantling the Mafia Economy
The government’s strategy has focused heavily on hitting the financial backbone of organized crime. Under the provisions of the Gangsters Act, movable and immovable assets totaling Rs 152.33 crore have been confiscated. When combined with other seizures, the total value of illegal assets stripped from mafia elements reaches a staggering Rs 15,233 crore.
Targeted operations against state-level mafia figures have also yielded significant results. Law enforcement has taken action against 68 identified top-tier mafia leaders, along with their associates and gang members. These specific operations resulted in 909 registered cases and the arrest of 651 individuals.
Cybercrime and Technological Warfare
Recognizing the shift in criminal tactics, the state has expanded its reach into the digital realm. Cybercrime police stations are now operational in all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh. This digital crackdown has already seen success, with police managing to freeze funds worth Rs 874.58 crore to prevent cyber-enabled theft.
CM Yogi Adityanath on Law and Order Reforms
Reflecting on the state's transformation, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath noted that the period prior to 2017 was marked by "policy paralysis" and a sense of helplessness among the police force. He stated that before his administration took charge, the mafia held significant sway over the public and the law enforcement machinery.
Speaking at a ceremony for the launch of 87 advanced Interceptor Vehicles, the Chief Minister emphasized the shift toward a "Safe City" model. He highlighted several key technological and structural reforms implemented to modernize the state's security apparatus:
- Surveillance: The installation of over 14 lakh cameras across various cities.
- Command Centres: The establishment of Integrated Command and Control Centres in every district.
- Traffic Safety: The deployment of high-tech interceptor vehicles to manage traffic and safety.
The Chief Minister asserted that the current administration has moved away from the era of despair, steering the state toward progress through decisive political leadership and comprehensive police reforms.