Chennai Police Arrests Dozens in Special Drive Against Criminals

The Crackdown

Greater Chennai Police arrested 36 people, including 16 history-sheeters, during a citywide crackdown on rowdies conducted on November 9, 2026. Police teams led by inspectors and supervised by Deputy Commissioners carried out intensive checks, searches, and interrogations across all police districts following instructions from Police Commissioner A. Amalraj. Officers questioned 222 individuals during the operation, with 185 classified as rowdies possessing criminal backgrounds. While 36 were arrested and remanded in judicial custody, authorities continue investigating the current activities of the remaining 186 persons. Commissioner Amalraj warned that strict legal action awaits anyone involved in criminal acts that threaten public peace.

Avadi Operations

A similar special drive took place on Tuesday in the Avadi and Red Hills police districts under the Avadi Police Commissionerate to prevent crime and maintain law and order. Avadi City Police Commissioner T. Senthil Kumar stated that officers checked 339 rowdies during this operation. Police arrested 48 individuals, sent 258 away with warnings, and secured bonds for good behavior from 16 others.

Context

City police forces routinely conduct special drives to keep track of known criminals and prevent potential offenses in urban areas. History-sheeters are individuals whose past criminal records are officially maintained by local police stations for ongoing surveillance.