Punjab Police Captures Notorious Gangster Afridi After 10-Month Manhunt

Punjab Police has successfully deported notorious gangster Gurwinder alias Afridi from Ethiopia, concluding a 10-month international manhunt. This operation, dubbed Operation SHAHID, was a collaborative effort involving the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab and the Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell (OFTEC) of Counter Intelligence, Punjab, along with support from central agencies.

The operation to apprehend Afridi began in January 2026, following a series of violent incidents attributed to the Doni Bal-Prabh Dassuwal gang, of which Afridi is a key figure. The Punjab government, recognizing the threat posed by this gang, announced a reward of ₹5 lakh for any information leading to Afridi's arrest. DGP Gaurav Yadav highlighted the importance of community involvement in the fight against organized crime, stating, "The cooperation of the public has been instrumental in our success."

Afridi, a member of the Pashtun Afrīdī tribe, had been evading capture by frequently changing locations and utilizing a network of contacts across borders. His deportation marks a significant victory for law enforcement agencies, showcasing their commitment to dismantling organized crime syndicates.

The involvement of central agencies was crucial in tracking Afridi's movements. Intelligence reports indicated that he had been residing in Ethiopia, where he was reportedly involved in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking and extortion. The Punjab Police coordinated with international law enforcement agencies to secure his deportation, which was finalized on November 8, 2026.

"This operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating crime. We will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that criminals like Afridi face justice," said a senior official involved in the operation.

The successful deportation of Afridi has been met with relief among the residents of Punjab, who have been living under the shadow of gang violence. Local communities expressed gratitude towards the police for their relentless efforts. "We feel safer knowing that a dangerous criminal is off the streets. This gives us hope that the police are working hard to protect us," said a local resident.

The Punjab Police have reiterated their commitment to public safety, emphasizing that they will continue to target organized crime. The AGTF has been actively working to dismantle other gangs operating in the region, with several arrests made in recent months.

The deportation of Afridi is expected to have significant implications for organized crime in Punjab. Experts believe that his removal from the equation could lead to a power vacuum within the Doni Bal-Prabh Dassuwal gang, potentially resulting in infighting among rival factions. This could either destabilize the gang or lead to an increase in violence as different groups vie for control.

"The next few months will be critical in determining the future landscape of organized crime in Punjab. The police must remain vigilant to prevent any resurgence of violence," noted a crime analyst.

The deportation of Gurwinder Afridi is a significant step towards restoring law and order in Punjab. It demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between local and central agencies in tackling organized crime. As the investigation continues, authorities are hopeful that this operation will serve as a deterrent to other criminals operating in the region.

The Punjab Police remain committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the safety of its citizens is prioritized. As the dust settles on this operation, the focus will shift to the ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and maintain peace in the region.