Surat Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Tomar on Wednesday held a parade of nearly 1,000 criminals in Surat city to deter crime during the upcoming Diwali festival.
The parade was held at the Police Parade Ground in Athwalines. The criminals were brought from 36 police stations in the city.
Tomar urged the criminals to turn their lives around and lead a crime-free life. He said that crime does not pay and it only leads to pain and suffering.
"I appeal to all criminals to give up their criminal activities and lead a life of honesty and integrity," Tomar said. "I assure you that the police will provide all possible assistance to those who want to reform themselves."
One of the criminals, Akash Bhamare, who was arrested in 35 cases of chain snatching, said that he regrets his actions. He said that he has been trying to reform himself and has been avoiding bad company.
"I have realized that crime does not pay," Bhamare said. "I am now trying to lead a normal life."
Tomar said that the police will continue to take strict action against criminals. He said that the police will also work to create awareness among the people about the ills of crime.
The parade is a significant step by the Surat Police to deter crime during the Diwali festival. It is a clear message to criminals that the police will not tolerate any illegal activity.
