New Delhi: The Delhi Police has arrested over 200 people so far for defacing public properties as part of its ongoing drive to check the violation of model code of conduct ahead of the Assembly polls in the national capital.
The action came after authorities restricted unauthorised use of public buildings and government properties for publicity of election candidates.
"We have arrested 230 people and registered 922 FIRs for defacing public properties and removed around 4,000 hoardings, banners, posters and graffiti from the national capital," a senior police official said.
The Delhi Police launched a special drive last month to nab those involved in spoiling public and government properties. "Our personnel are keeping a vigil on such activities and taking necessary actions against the offenders," he said.
According to official data, the maximum number of FIRs -- 176 -- were filed in North East district, followed by 166 in South West, 144 in Outer and 112 in East district.
The West district has registered 115 cases, Central 62, South East 44,North West 38,North 32 and South 26.
The lowest number of FIRs -- 7 -- were lodged in New Delhi region.
According to the West Bengal Prevention of Defacement of Properties Act 1976,which is also applicable in the national capital, unauthorised use of public outlets for any means of advertising is an offence. "The Act is being followed in the national capital to check the practice," the official said.
