Mysuru, Oct. 13 (RK&KS)-The Anti-Rowdy Squad (ARS)resumed operations on Oct. 10, 2025, conducting extensive area domination drives and registering cases under various Acts.

On Oct. 12, the squad carried out operations in Ittigegud, Matrumandali Circle, Ghousianagar, Sunnadakeri, Kyathamaranahalli, and Paduvarahalli, during which 282 individuals were picked up for questioning.

The squad also registered 269 cases under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act (COTPA) and 455 petty cases under the Karnataka Police (KP) Act.

One individual, Prabhu alias Daiva, was remanded to judicial custody, and a rowdy parade was conducted at Lashkar Police Station.

In addition, a special traffic drive was carried out between 8 pm and 11 pm across the city, resulting in 64 cases of triple riding, 120 cases of riding without helmets, defective number plates, and wheeling violations under the Indian Motor Vehicles (IMV) Act, and the detention of 14 vehicles.

The re-booted Anti-Rowdy Squad aims to restore law and order, curb criminal activities, and instil fear among anti-social elements in the city.

After I took charge as the Police Commissioner, a few crimes involving budding rowdies had come to light. To put a stop to such anti-social activities, the Anti-Rowdy Squad was re-launched in the city. DCP (Law and Order) R.N. Bindu Mani will closely monitor the squad. I will also participate in operations, visiting the homes of rowdy elements, bringing them to the Police Station and initiating legal action. After 8 pm, the Squad members will carry out search operations, targeting budding rowdies and other anti-social elements through Area Domination drives. The squad will also address traffic violations under the IMV Act and other criminal activities.”

— Seema Latkar, City Police Commissioner

‘Political meddling must not demoralise squad’

Anti-Rowdy Squad members should show full dedication towards controlling rowdyism in the city, and higher officials must encourage and protect them. Only then can the squad operate with confidence. They should not be distracted and demoralised by political interference and must continue their work with focus and commitment.

At present, many rowdies are not afraid of the Police, believing they can serve short jail terms, secure bail, and return to crime. The Police must instil fear among rowdy elements by teaching them a strong lesson so they refrain from anti-social activities in the future. During my time in the squad, higher officials supported and protected us, which allowed us to work fearlessly and with complete dedication.”

— Puttaswamygowda, Former Inspector of the Anti-Rowdy Squad