Cops crackdown on 28 gangs amid rising turf wars

Nagpur: Following a surge in inter-gang rivalries, Nagpur city police have started a crackdown against 28 criminal gangs operating in the city's sensitive pockets. The recent brutal murder of cafe owner Avinash Bhusari by the notorious Hiranwar gang in Gokulpeth, apart from other killings, has prompted the cops to act tough against criminal gangs.

The intensified campaign, led by CP Ravinder Singal and deputy CP (Crime) Rahul Maknikar, aims to dismantle these organised syndicates and restore peace in the city.

In response to escalating gang wars, the police department 's modus operandi wing updated its intelligence on gang structures, operational tactics, and rivalries. A senior official revealed that the cops conduct intelligence-driven operations every evening, extending until midnight. These missions involve surprise home visits, searches at gang members' residences, and patrolling in surrounding areas to seize illegal weapons and drugs.

"We are closely studying rivalry patterns and tracking the activities of these gangs. Recently released inmates are under regular scrutiny, and their enmities are being closely monitored to prevent further violence," the official said, emphasising the goal of reducing murder cases linked to gang conflicts.

The police identified Zone 2, encompassing West Nagpur, as the epicentre of gang activity, with eight active syndicates. Zone 4, covering East Nagpur, follows closely with seven operational gangs. These zones are now under heightened surveillance, with targeted operations to disrupt gang networks.

The crackdown comes as a response to growing public concern over gang violence, with residents demanding safer streets. The police have vowed to maintain relentless pressure on these criminal outfits, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to organised crime in Nagpur.