Bhubaneswar: A mobile theft gang involved in multiple break-ins at mobile shops in Bhubaneswar has been busted by police, with six persons, including five minors, arrested in connection with the case, police said on Tuesday.
The arrested accused has been identified as Aditya Sahoo (19), a resident of the Jajpur area, while the remaining five are minors and children in conflict with the law (CCL).
Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jagmohan Meena said the gang was active across different police station jurisdictions and targeted mobile shops in a planned manner.
According to Meena, the first theft took place in the Mancheswar police station area on April 30, followed by another incident in the Laxmisagar police station area on May 3.
“The incidents were reported from different areas, but CCTV analysis and the modus operandi indicated the involvement of the same gang. Both police stations coordinated and successfully identified and apprehended the accused,” DCP Meena said while briefing the media.
During the investigation, police seized 24 mobile phones, six earphones, one drone, and several mobile accessories from their possession. Items allegedly used for housebreaking were also seized.
Meena further said that interrogation revealed the accused were also involved in motorcycle thefts. Two stolen motorcycles have been recovered, and the related case has been registered at the Badagada police station. The vehicles will be returned to their rightful owners after due verification.
Preliminary verification of criminal records showed that one of the juveniles has multiple past cases registered against him, including theft, housebreaking, and anti-social activities, Meena added.
Further investigation is underway to ascertain the wider network and possible involvement of other members in similar crimes.
