As announced during his first interaction with the media after assuming office, the new Police Commissioner of Hubballi-Dharwad Bhushan Borase has set up ‘Anti-stabbing squads’ in all police stations of the twin cities.

The squads became functional on Sunday and on the first day of operation, over 215 vehicles were checked.

The squads have been constituted for checking increasing instances of stabbing in the twin cities and also as a precautionary measure ahead of the Ganesha festival.

On Sunday, the Police Commissioner led the checking and warned of strict action against individuals indulging in anti-social activities. He has said that cases would be booked under the Arms Act in case weapons were found.

The Police Department has also released posters highlighting the drive and need for the public to be cautious and also alert the police in case they come across any such illegal activity.

Youth arrested

On Monday, the Police arrested a youth who was seen in a clip walking on the street brandishing a sword. The youth has been identified as Gangadhar Anand Madiwalar, a resident of Eshwar Nagar in Old Hubballi. In the clip posted on his Instagram account, he was seen walking in a group brandishing a sword.