Dhanbad, November 18: In its bid to maintain law and order and curb potential criminal activities, Dhanbad Police has carried out a massive anti-loitering drive across the city.
Police teams conducted foot patrols and mobile patrolling in major busy and sensitive areas such as Station Road, City Centre, Bank More, Dhanbad, Manaidih, Hirapur, Katras More, Barwadda, Govindpur, Jorapokhar, Rajgang, Nirsa, Panchet, Kumardhubi, Tundi, and Sindri and inspected deserted lanes, parks, empty grounds, school premises, roadside corners and other public spots to check suspicious movement.
During the operation, 123 people were caught loitering in groups late at night. Many of them were youngsters found sitting at various spots without any purpose. Police checked their identities, detained suspicious individuals for questioning and released those with no wrongdoing after issuing strict warnings.
Several people were also found consuming alcohol in public places. These people were immediately taken into custody and legal action has been initiated against them.

Meanwhile, patrolling teams also conducted a night-long vehicle checking drive, inspecting motorcycles, cars and other vehicles. Drivers were asked to produce ID cards, driving licences and vehicle documents. Some vehicles were found suspicious and were subjected to additional checks.
The operation was conducted on the direct instructions of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Prabhat Kumar and covered all police station areas and outposts with heavy deployment of personnel on late Monday evening.
The SSP said that the special drive was necessary due to rising complaints about late-night gatherings, the possibility of criminal groups forming, and increasing activities of anti-social elements.
The SSP also made it clear that this is not a one-day action as such operations will continue in phases to ensure better safety and a secure environment in the city.