Ensure chain snatching cases are curbed, DGP tells cops

In order to curb the menace of chain snatching across the state, director general of police (DGP) Praveen Dixit has given elaborate instructions to the state police force. These instructions include creating a data base of criminals involved in chain snatching and taking action against vehicle thefts and drug trafficking as these crimes are closely connected with chain snatching. The DGP also instructed the police to map common chain snatching spots at the police station level and collect digital evidence to bolster the case.

A total of 188 cases of chain snatching have been registered in the city between January and April this year.

DGP Dixit had recently issued a circular to the state police force. The circular stated that while taking stock of various crimes in the state, it has come to light that effective action needs to be taken to curb chain snatching cases. It has also come to light that when nakabandi and other measures taken to curb chain snatching are stopped, the incidents go on the rise again.

"In order to curb chain snatching cases, the unit commanders are instructed to follow measures such as preparing a photo album and interrogation report of the accused held in chain snatching cases in the past three years.

The report should also contain the name, address, weapon used to commit crime and modus-operandi of the accused. Since motor cycle thefts and chain snatching cases are closely connected with each other, regular checks of vehicle owners in a police station's jurisdiction has to be done," the circular stated.

"Keep an eye on the activities of those who have come out of jail in the past few days. For that, one constable has to be appointed for each criminal. Examine the possibilities whether preventive actions or MCOCA, MPDA or externment action can be taken on the criminals who have come out of jail. Ensure preventive action is taken against those who have received stolen properties in the detected cases. The mapping of places and time needs to be done where chain snatching cases have occurred in previous years. It has to be studied whether there is any link in the places and time selected," the circular added.

The circular also stated that, while registering FIRs, it has to be ensured that all components of IPC Section 392 (robbery) are duly mentioned. "The videography of seized material in chain snatching cases has to be done and digital evidence has to be prepared. In a few instances, it has come to light that drug addicts were involved in chain snatching instances. Hence, prepare a list of drug addicts and drug traffickers and keep an eye on their activities and, if required, set up a dedicated ANC. Identify the spots where frequent instances of chain snatching occur, conduct nakabandi there and intensify shift-wise and rotation-wise patrolling in civvies and in uniform.

Rope in police mitra in curbing the menace. Intensify patrolling and nakabandi near religious places, morning walk points and parks. Coordinate with the authorities and ensure adequate light arrangements are done and CCTVs are installed at such places. Coordinate with Regional Transport Offices and get the data of vehicles registered by them," the circular concluded.