LUCKNOW: In a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at dismantling not only the physical networks of criminals but also their digital influence, the Varanasi range police have launched a special campaign titled ‘Operation Vajrapat’ across the districts of Jaunpur, Ghazipur and Chandauli.The operation, launched under the direction of deputy inspector general (DIG) of Police, Varanasi Range, Vaibhav Krishna, seeks to curb the growing trend of criminals using social media and other digital platforms to establish influence, glorify criminal activities, promote gang culture and create an atmosphere of fear in society.According to police officials, the campaign goes beyond conventional law enforcement measures and focuses on identifying and neutralising the entire criminal ecosystem of offenders, including their social, economic and digital networks. The initiative is aimed at dismantling organised criminal structures, preventing the glorification of crime, curbing the misuse of social media and protecting young people from being influenced by criminal culture.
1,080 Individuals Linked to 165 Criminal Groups Identified
During the first phase of the operation, police conducted an extensive survey and intelligence-based analysis across the three districts. The exercise led to the identification of 165 groups comprising 1,080 individuals allegedly attempting to establish criminal dominance and influence at the local level.Police prepared detailed dossiers on each identified individual, documenting their criminal history, gang affiliations, social media activities and potential impact on public safety. Officials said the profiling exercise was designed to create a comprehensive database for targeted enforcement and monitoring.
Graded Legal Action Against Identified Offenders
Based on the threat perception and criminal background of each individual, police adopted a strategy of graded legal action.Measures initiated under the campaign include counselling and warnings for minor offenders, preventive legal action, registration of criminal cases, opening of history sheets, proceedings under the Goonda Control Act, and, where warranted, action under the Gangsters Act.Authorities also stated that proceedings against illegally acquired properties linked to criminal activities would be pursued wherever necessary.
554 Social Media Profiles Removed
A major component of Operation Vajrapat involved digital surveillance and social media monitoring. Police teams continuously tracked online accounts that were allegedly glorifying criminals, displaying illegal firearms, promoting gang activities or attempting to spread fear and intimidation among the public.Following technical scrutiny and coordination with social media companies, police succeeded in getting 554 objectionable social media profiles removed. The district-wise breakup is as follows:
- Jaunpur: 192 profiles
- Ghazipur: 250 profiles
- Chandauli: 112 profiles
- Total: 554 profiles
Police said many of these accounts were being used by criminals to cultivate a feared public image, expand gang influence, issue threats and create an atmosphere conducive to extortion and intimidation. The removal of these profiles has significantly weakened the digital reach and influence of such elements, officials claimed.
Police to Act Even Without Formal Complaints
As part of the campaign, police have also been instructed to proactively initiate legal action in cases where victims are reluctant to come forward due to fear of retaliation. Officials said that whenever credible evidence is available, police personnel may act as complainants themselves to ensure effective prosecution of offenders.
Continuous Monitoring and Review
To ensure sustained impact, all identified individuals are being kept under regular surveillance. Officers at the police station, circle and district levels have been directed to carry out time-bound action, while senior officers are continuously reviewing the progress of the campaign.
Message to Criminals
Police officials described Operation Vajrapat as an innovative and result-oriented initiative of the Uttar Pradesh police aimed at simultaneously dismantling the physical, social, economic and digital influence mechanisms of criminals.The campaign sends a clear message that individuals involved in unlawful activities will find no safe haven, either in the real world or on digital platforms. Uttar Pradesh police reiterated its commitment to building a crime-free, fear-free and secure society and said similar operations will continue in the future to curb organised crime and gang culture across the state.
