Sun Jan 18 08:55:47 UTC 2026: # Southern India Police Net Hundreds in Pre-Pongal Crime Sweep
The Story:
In a significant operation dubbed “DragNet,” police in the Southern districts of Tamil Nadu, India, arrested 598 individuals with outstanding non-bailable warrants (NBWs) between January 9 and January 16, 2026. An additional 510 individuals surrendered to the courts, anticipating police action. The operation aimed to prevent potential unrest and criminal activity during the Pongal festival.
Key Points:
- 598 arrests were made as part of Operation DragNet, targeting individuals with long-pending non-bailable warrants.
- 510 individuals surrendered to the courts, fearing arrest.
- The operation spanned 10 districts in the South Zone.
- Police utilized meticulous planning, including cross-checking data with judicial records and employing scientific investigation techniques.
- Inter-district coordination and real-time information sharing were crucial to the operation’s success.
- Madurai district executed 90 NBWs, the highest number in the South Zone.
- Dindigul executed 89 NBWs.
- Inspector General of Police (South Zone) Vijayendra Bidari stated that such drives would be carried out regularly.
Key Takeaways:
- Operation DragNet demonstrates a proactive approach by Tamil Nadu police to maintain law and order during the Pongal festival.
- The use of data analysis, digital footprint tracking, and inter-district coordination highlights the increasing sophistication of law enforcement in the region.
- The large number of surrenders suggests a heightened awareness and fear of police action among individuals with outstanding warrants.
- Regular implementation of similar operations is intended to ensure the efficacious functioning of the judicial process.
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