As the shoppers’ crowd has increased in view of the approaching Deepavali, the criminals too have become extra-active in the city, especially in the crowded markets and malls. There have been reports of 51 vehicle thefts during the past 17 days. This is in addition to the scores of pick pocketing, chain snatching and thefts of mobiles, and other valuables that have been reported during this fortnight.
This alarming number of vehicle thefts shows that the city has become extremely unsafe for parked four-wheelers and two-wheelers with nearly 3 vehicles being stolen in a day on an average. Most of the incidents of vehicle thefts have occurred outside banks and hospitals.
There has been an increase in chain snatching incidents also that has sparked fear in the public, especially the women. Many victims have also suffered grievous head injuries due to these incidents. Even while the police claim to have recovered CCTV footage of many incidents, the chain snatchers continue to roam around in bikes, snatching chains and purses.
Speaking to the media persons, Gwalior SSP Navneet Bhaseen said that, in view of the approaching rush during Deepavali, the police department is taking all precautionary measures to thwart attempts by anti-social elements, especially thieves and pickpocketers.
He added that an additional force of 300 policemen will be deployed in the market places with instructions to look out for anti-social elements involved in stealing, picking pockets and robbing valuables by diverting attention of the shoppers.
The SSP has also appealed to the public to be more vigilant while buying things in the market. He added that the public can give information about any untoward incident on his mobile number 7049110100.