Nagpur: The Nagpur City Police have achieved a major breakthrough in curbing night-time crimes with the success of ‘Mission Night Watch’, an initiative led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 4) Rashmita Rao. The focused night surveillance operation has brought about a 57% reduction in house burglaries across Zone 4 during September 2025, compared to the previous month.

The initiative was launched on August 30, 2025, after a detailed three-year analysis of burglary and vehicle theft cases revealed a surge in night-time offences. To counter this, DCP Rao introduced a comprehensive policing strategy that emphasized strong night patrolling, hotspot mapping, and real-time supervision.

Under ‘Mission Night Watch’, a dedicated WhatsApp monitoring group was created, linking DCP Rao, senior police inspectors, zonal officers, and night patrol staff. The group enables real-time coordination, accountability, and quick action. Officers are rotated daily to ensure transparency and vigilance.

Police also conducted crime hotspot mapping across Zone 4 based on the timing and location of past burglaries and thefts. QR codes were installed at key points and at homes of senior citizens living alone, allowing beat marshals to digitally confirm patrol coverage.

Night patrols were divided into four time-based tiers for maximum coverage:

• 10 pm–12 am: Establishment checks and closure drives
• 12 am–2 am: Verification of known burglary offenders
• 2 am–4 am: Siren patrols and checking suspicious individuals
• 4 am–6 am: ‘Good Morning Patrol’ for early morning security

Throughout the night, teams share updates, patrol images, and action reports via the group. DCP Rao personally supervises operations between 11 pm and 6 am, issues real-time instructions, and reviews each morning’s performance. Officers failing to comply face written explanations, while those showing diligence are commended for their efforts.

Due to this systematic approach, Zone 4 recorded 23 fewer burglary cases in September, a 57% drop compared to August 2025, and 10 fewer incidents compared to September 2024.

During the month, police teams conducted extensive enforcement under the campaign:

• 185 establishments penalized for operating beyond permitted hours
• 416 persons booked for consuming liquor in public places
• 31 suspicious individuals detained during night patrols
• 32 hotels and dhabas raided for selling illicit liquor

The success of ‘Mission Night Watch’ has enhanced public confidence and strengthened night policing in Nagpur. With data-driven strategies and active field monitoring, Zone 4 has set a strong example for other city zones to replicate in their crime prevention efforts.