Prayagraj: Police have intensified targeted operations to tighten the noose around active henchmen of slain mafia-politician Atiq Ahmed . Apart from updating dossiers and compiling fresh intelligence on members involved in plotting and extortion , police have invoked the Gangsters Act against four active members, including close relatives, to dismantle their network.
A senior officer told TOI that a joint team of police and development authority last week razed an illegal colony spread over 26 bighas in Jhalwa and Peepalgaon, allegedly developed by close aides of slain gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed. The team also demolished a real estate office built on around 220 sq metres and cleared illegal plotting in Bhitti Asdullapur, Peepalgaon and Rawatpur.
He said the operation aims to ascertain the current status of gang members — whether they are out on bail, operating discreetly or in an organised manner — and initiate action accordingly. Meanwhile, Kareli police have invoked the Gangsters Act against four persons, said to be close relatives of Atiq, including Imran, Jishan alias Janu and Kamran . Police said properties amassed by them through illegal means would be seized under the Act.
The demolition team faced resistance near Shadab crossing in Kalindipuram, but heavy police force was deployed to cordon off the area and complete the drive. Instructions have been issued to concerned police stations to tighten the noose around absconders and those involved in extortion, land grabbing and illegal plotting. Policemen from five police stations have been tasked with gathering information and updating the gang chart. The accused allegedly forged documents to gain physical and financial benefits and tried to stake claim over sealed land.