Once a collection of sleepy villages on the outskirts of Chandigarh, Zirakpur has transformed into a bustling urban sprawl. However, this rapid growth has come with a dark side. As of early 2026, the town is increasingly being labeled the “crime capital” of the Tricity area (Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula), a title sparked by a surge in high-profile incidents ranging from gang encounters to sophisticated cyber scams high profile prostitutions and escort services provided by wide range of hoteliers and Spa owners.
A Spike in High-Stakes Crime
While Chandigarh has seen a marginal decline in heinous crimes in recent years, Zirakpur has moved in the opposite direction. The town has become a recurring site for:
Gangland Activities: High-rise buildings and luxury societies have unintentionally provided “safe havens” for anti-social elements.1 Recent years have seen dramatic gunfights and encounters between police and gangsters in areas like Baltana and VIP Road.2
Organized Rackets: The hospitality sector in Zirakpur has been under intense scrutiny. In late 2025 and early 2026, multiple raids on hotels along the Kalka-Shimla highway busted major sex rackets and illegal “spa” operations.3 Snatchings and armed robberies are no longer rare.4 In one dramatic incident in late 2025, residents had to take matters into their own hands, chasing down armed robbers who attempted a carjacking near Shiva Enclave.5
Cyber & Financial Fraud: As a fast-growing business hub, Zirakpur is a prime target for “digital arrest” scams and immigration fraud.6 Just this week, a local resident lost ₹38 lakh to fraudsters posing as Mumbai Police and CBI officials.
May be the new name of Zirakpur is The Strategic “Grey Zone” (Sources)
