In a notable triumph for law enforcement, the Dispur Police have successfully cracked down on a notorious bag-snatching syndicate operating in Guwahati. This operation culminated in the arrest of five individuals, including one woman, suspected of orchestrating a series of thefts that have plagued the area.
The breakthrough in the case came following an intensive investigation into a recent bag-snatching incident reported in the Survey area, falling under the jurisdiction of the Dispur Police Station. Acting promptly on the complaint lodged on April 23, 2024, authorities initiated Case No. 352/2024, invoking pertinent sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 356/379/323.
Coordinated efforts by teams from the East Police District led to targeted raids in Tamulpur and Guwahati, resulting in the apprehension of the five suspects on Saturday. The arrested individuals are identified as Rupam Ali (18) from Morigaon, Rahul Sutradhar (21) from Barpeta, Dipak Barman (18), Nisha Barman (38), and Rahul Das (32) from PS-Tamulpur. They are believed to be key operatives behind the spate of snatchings.
However, even as authorities celebrated this success, another distressing incident unfolded today as miscreants targeted an elderly woman on Amaravati road in Christianbasti, snatching her chain during her morning commute.
The victim, left traumatized by the audacious act, wasted no time in filing a First Information Report (FIR) at the Dispur police station. The assailants, riding a motorcycle, swiftly fled the scene after perpetrating the crime, leaving the victim in a state of shock.
Investigations have identified Rupam Ali, Dipak Barman, and Rahul Sutradhar as the alleged perpetrators of these crimes, primarily targeting mobile phones and handbags. The stolen items were reportedly trafficked to Rahul Das, who operates a shop in Tamulpur. Additionally, Nisha Barman is implicated in the transportation and delivery of the stolen goods to Rahul Das.
During the operation, law enforcement authorities made significant recoveries, including two stolen scooters—one from Bharalumukh and the other from the Geetanagar PS area—as well as a cache of 49 mobile phones.
These arrests mark a significant stride in the ongoing battle against bag-snatching incidents in the region, underscoring the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies. At present, the accused individuals are in police custody as legal proceedings unfold.