Gurgaon Police demolishes illegal properties worth Rs 5 crore linked to criminal proceeds

GURGAON: The city police crime branch launched a crackdown on criminals by demolishing illegal properties allegedly built from proceeds of crime, officials said on Wednesday.

As part of a special campaign against habitual offenders, drug traffickers, land mafias and anti-social elements, the police took action against illegal encroachments and structures linked to four criminals between June 4 and June 10.

The properties demolished were valued at around Rs 5 crore, police said. The four accused are involved in more than 50 criminal cases, including theft, drug trafficking, extortion, attempt to murder, assault, criminal intimidation and violations under the Arms Act.

Police said investigations found that the accused had been involved in criminal activities for several years and had illegally occupied land to construct houses, shops and other structures. These properties were allegedly used to strengthen their influence and support further criminal activities.

The crime branch removed illegal encroachments and demolished houses and shops allegedly built using money generated through criminal activities.

Police said the action was aimed at targeting the financial networks of criminals and preventing them from using illegally acquired assets to maintain their influence.

Gurgaon Police said the campaign against crime, drug trafficking, land mafia activities and illegally acquired properties will continue." There is no place in Gurgaon for those who build wealth through crime," a police official said, adding that criminals involved in such activities will face strict action. The police also issued a message to offenders, saying: "Give up crime or leave Gurgaon."