Be proactive, not reactive: Top cop warning to anti-rowdy squad
Times of India | 14 February 2025
12 Kolkata: The Lalbazar brass, led by commissioner Manoj Verma, has asked the Anti-Rowdy Section (ARS) of Kolkata Police — the unit that collects information on the movement of criminals — to develop its "sources" in such a manner that it can be "more proactive" in preventing street crimes. This will be in addition to the unit's current strength of "being reactive" and apprehending the accused at short notice.
While the unit has been lauded for quick arrests, whether in the Narkeldanga snatching or the arrest of criminals who shot at a councillor, the police brass stated that stopping crimes like those on Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Road, APC Road, or multiple firing incidents in the KLC area should be the prerogative of the ARS.
A police officer mentioned that while the top brass was satisfied with the resolution of multiple sensational crimes like the Karaya-Narkeldanga-Rafi Ahmed Kidwai snatchings or the attempted murder of a Trinamool councillor, they were not happy with how the criminals were entering the city and committing crimes without any prior intelligence. Therefore, the brass has instructed the expansion of the ‘source network' to gather information about criminal activities in advance.
The top officers have cited the example of the Kolkata Police STF in this regard, stating how they arrested five criminal gangs from Uttar Pradesh and seized weapons, which they claim prevented potential robberies.
"Snatchings at the heart of the city, especially at a time when several known criminals are now out on bail, is not a good sign. With general elections a year away, we need to be prepared," said a detective department source.
The top brass has committed to provide technical help. In a meeting with the detectives of the anti-gang unit at Lalbazar, the commissioner has advised CCTV coverage to keep a watch on crime-prone areas.