LUCKNOW, Oct. 31 -- Uttar Pradesh Police will intensify evening patrols in crowded markets and sensitive areas ahead of the festive season, while stepping up investigations into the wider networks behind criminal gangs, including their interstate links, illegal arms supply chains and drug trafficking routes.

The directives were issued by director general of police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna and additional director general of police (law and order) Amitabh Yash during an online meeting on Saturday with senior officers across the state to review security arrangements for Dhanteras, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj and Chhath.

The DGP directed senior officers and station house officers (SHOs) to personally conduct evening patrols in busy market...